ALBANY –- It hasn’t gone viral, but Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s new video message today continues his bid to take his fiscal message directly to New Yorkers.
Knowing the fight his new budget plan faces in Albany, Cuomo has been ramping up new ways -- beyond the reach of reporters -- to try to woo voters to his side, including personal trips, such as a visit to the Buffalo area Friday, Internet messages and the collection of tens of thousands of e-mail addresses to blast his views to potential supporters.
In today’s five-minute video, shot over the weekend, Cuomo briefly outlines his budget plans and defends its cuts to education, health care and other popular programs. And he relaunched his oft-repeated attacks on special interests, lobbyists and lawmakers.
“It’s about lobbyists influencing politicians on both sides of the aisle," Cuomo says in the video.
How far Cuomo goes with this effort is uncertain. Former Gov. Eliot Spitzer launched a living room tour into the districts of reluctant lawmakers who didn’t sign onto his agenda. It was a short-lived campaign.
“I need you to make your voice heard now," Cuomo implores viewers.
Most uncertain is whether New Yorkers will be moved by Cuomo. Polls released before Cuomo put out his budget Tuesday show they understand New York has fiscal problems and they don't want taxes raised. But they aren't too wild, either, about seeing things like state aid to their public schools get cut.
--Tom Precious
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