March 01, 2007
Pataki Still A Possibility?
People close to former New York Gov. George Pataki insist that he is still considering a run for the presidency, even though he is lagging behind a crowded Republican field. "There are so many candidates," says a friend who dined with him last week. "He just wants to not jump in right now."
Pataki raised $350,000 at a fund-raiser last week for his 21st Century Freedom PAC. The former governor has changed tactics since early February, when he released his New Hampshire campaign staff and supporters, says the friend, adding, "He's observing and traveling and working on policy, not politics." Pataki has set himself apart from the GOP field by criticizing the president's plan for troop build-up in Iraq.
One school of thought is that Pataki is waiting for Rudy Giuliani to implode. With the former New York City mayor in the race, Pataki will always be the second-best New York hero of Sept. 11. Giuliani has a number of enemies working to unearth new scandals. Rivals are betting that he will not survive the money primary at the end of this month.
Another possibility is that Pataki loyalists are talking up a presidential run while he transitions to a rumored new career as a consultant on environmental issues. Pataki has been speaking around the country on climate change and alternative energy.
Arthur Finkelstein is advising Pataki, along with a handful of people from his administration: Zenia Mucha, Walt Breakell, Rob Cole, Charlie Gargano, David Catalfamo, Kieran Mahoney and Cathy Blaney. [ANNE MICHAUD]
Anne Michaud is the editor of the Crain's Insider political newsletter based in New York City.
Update: the Boston Globe reports that Pataki has cancelled his NH appearance planned for tonight.
Posted at 03:22 PM
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