Tagged: carl paladino

New York spends two times the national average on Medicaid and cost per capita here is 100 percent higher than the next highest state. Since nobody in the Empire State is arguing that we get anywhere near our money’s worth from this bloated program, deep cuts should be in store.

Every year since 2005, New York State Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (D-Kenmore) has trotted out the same draft legislation that directs counties to set their own Medicaid options and eligibility levels.

His point: providing costly optional Medicaid benefits should not be required in this enduring recession, so let the locals decide. It’s a good idea that saves real money in hard times.

Gubernatorial nominees Andrew Cuomo and Carl Paladino both have proposals aimed at fixing New York’s ailing economy. And that’s no small task.

That’s according to Mark Eagan, CEO of the Albany-Colonie Chamber of Commerce. Eagan pointed to the 2010 State Economic Competitiveness Index from the American Legislative Exchange Council as proof that New York is in dire straits. The research shows that the Empire State ranks 50th among the 50 states in economic outlook.

“Whether it’s for companies or residents, New York is expensive. The future governor needs to make New York more competitive to entice any development,” Eagan says.

Tonight, seven candidates will descend upon Hofstra University to vie for the position of governor of New York State. Hot topics will include the politicians' plans to address the state's floundering economy, including proposed property tax caps and measures to encourage economic and job growth.

The debating candidates include frontrunner, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo (D), Carl Paladino (R). Also taking the stage will be Green Party Candidate Howie Hawkins, Libertarian Warren Redlich, Freedom Party candidate Charles Barron, former madam Kristin Davis running on the Anti-Prohibition line and Jimmie McMillan of the memorably titled Rent Is Too Damn High Party.