ShoutyBear: Politics. Foreign Affairs. Zarf.

Governor-as-of-this-hour David Paterson got a hell of a response from the New York State Assembly during his swearing-in ceremony today. For one, this guy is funny. So what might have been a somber occasion is turning out to be a happy and hopeful one.

All of the NY state dignitaries are in the house, including NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg and U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Hillary Clinton. Man, this guy can deliver a speech.

Part I:

Part II:

Rhetoric aside, Paterson’s reception here highlights the most promising aspect of his forthcoming reign: People like him. He’s a bridge-builder and charmer, and the enthusiasm in Albany is enough to make me believe that the Assembly might turn in a budget on time this year. (I know — crazy.)

I covered Eliot Spitzer’s media strategy during his ‘06 gubernatorial run, and remember thinking it was the most annoying ad campaign ever. I also remember scolding myself for being so cynical and taking pains not to let my irritation show. Spitz’s GOP opponent was basically a non-entity, and the former state AG seemed to be taking full advantage by deluging New York’s air waves with over-the-top political rhetoric that would make Barack Obama look like Debbie Downer.

My “favorite” ad, which is the one that made me want to jump out a window, is particularly apt today. It happens to also feature Paterson. Little did we all know then. Script and video below.

Recently, my running mate David Paterson and I toured the school he attended as a child, walking past the very same hall signs he did forty years ago.

You begin your journey on Trustworthy Turnpike, make a left past Honesty Road, turn down Integrity Lane, and eventually, if you’ve walked the right way, end up on Responsibility Road.

Starting in January, we’ll be leading our state government on the same journey.

And we’re going to make it all the way to the end.

(Text on screen: Day One Everything Changes; Paid For By Spitzer Paterson 2006)