Cuomo Appoints Ex-Gov. Paterson To MTA Board
ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Former Gov. David Paterson has worn many different hats and now he's trying on a new one.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has appointed him to the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority replacing Nancy Shevell who resigned in January shortly after marrying Paul McCartney.
"Gov. Paterson has dedicated his life to working for the people of this state and I am excited that he will continue his public service at the MTA," said Cuomo.
WCBS 880's John Metaxas reports
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Paterson's scandal-plagued tenure as governor was brought up almost immediately to Cuomo on Monday after announcing the appointment.
At a press availability in Manhattan, Cuomo was quick to defend his predecessor as right for the job.
"Paterson has spent a lifetime in public service, he is very involved in MTA issues going back to his days in the Senate, and I think he's going to be a powerful advocate, and an informed voice on the MTA," Cuomo said.
Since his three-year stint as governor, Paterson has hosted a daily talk-radio show on WOR-AM and taught a college class.
His new role on the 23-member board is unpaid.
The appointment has been met with approval by many leaders.
"I have known the former governor for 35 years and look forward to the opportunity to work with him again," MTA Chairman Joe Lhota said. "He has long shared the governor's commitment to our mission of providing safe, efficient and effective transportation to more than 8.5 million riders every day."
"Paterson has the unique experience of leading New York through the worst recession in a generation," Councilman James Vacca, Chair of the Transportation Committee, said. "His expertise in managing difficult fiscal situations makes him a wise selection for the MTA Board."
The appointment must be confirmed by the state Senate.
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