Feb 20, 2009 7:28 pm US/Eastern
Paterson's Next Headache: War With Hospitals
Governor Fires Back At Massive Ad Blitz Against Cutting Of Healthcare Funding In Face Of Poor Economy
Paterson: "Because Of Our Deficit We Are Out Of Moves"
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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The latest Quinnipiac University polls suggests Gov. David Paterson's reputation is still faltering. But on Tuesday, Paterson addressed critics and discussed some of the latest controversies.
Chris Hondros/Getty Images
After weeks of having his proposed health cuts attacked by the powerful health care lobby, Gov. David Paterson is fighting back in the only way he can afford -- a war of words.
The governor's war against the hospital advocates is sort of a David and Goliath story, but at this point the outcome is not at all assured and here's why.
"Governor Paterson, your health care budget cuts are definitely all wrong," the advocate said.
Advocates representing health care workers at some 100 hospitals in the metropolitan area have mounted a multimillion dollar statewide ad campaign.
"I've been a nurse for 15 years and I've never seen worse cuts," an excerpt from one ad goes.
The ads, some hitting below the belt, seek to convince the public the cuts will destroy service and patient care.
"How could you do this? Why are you doing this to me? Why? Why are you doing this? Why are you doing this to my family?" said another ad.
Paterson responded on Friday, saying he would fight back more publicly if he could.
"I don't have the money to go on the air with my own campaign," he said.
The governor challenged the health advocates to a public debate on his proposed cuts.
"Wouldn't that be the professional adult way to handle it instead of these shrill commercials? And parading out people symbolically to make points?" Paterson wondered.
The governor defended his cuts -- which amount to 2 percent, saying that with a $15 billion budget gap he has to cut everything.
"Because of our deficit we are out of moves. No more on shots, no more delay tactics. The bill has come due," Paterson said.
The governor's attack on the health lobby comes as critics said his administration is adrift. Because of that, he is considering bringing back former top advisor, Charles O'Byrne, who was forced out because he didn't pay his taxes.
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