Gay marriage fans talk of Cuomo presidential bid

[cbdo2007]

NEW YORK (AP) — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's successful push to legalize gay marriage in his state has made him a national hero to liberal voters and has sparked talk of a potential presidential bid for Cuomo in 2016. But Cuomo paired his quest for same-sex marriage with efforts to slash state spending and curb the power of public employee unions, suggesting a blend of fiscal prudence and progressivism on social issues could be a new Democratic model in tough economic times.

"Andrew Cuomo is seen as a civil rights leader and has millions of volunteers and millions of donors across the country who would instantly support him if he decides to run," California-based gay rights leader Chad Griffin said. "He took a bold stand on a priority issue, made a commitment and delivered on it. Talk about motivating the base of a party."

Cuomo tried to tamp down talk about his presidential ambitions in a radio interview Monday, dismissing such talk as "silly" and disconnected from the importance of equal rights for gay couples.

"It's not about 2016. It's about the power of the passage of marriage equality," Cuomo said. "I'm not going to engage in this conversation or fuel this speculation." He didn't rule out a run in 2016 but said he had much more work to do as governor.

http://beta.news.yahoo.com/gay-marriage-fans-talk-cuomo-presidential-bid-070223077.html

[Jazz Ambassador]

1. He's shown he can get stuff done

And not just get it done, but get it done exactly as promised -- no meeting in the middle, no giving things up before the negotiations have even started.

There will be complaints that he's not progressive enough. But I'd always rather have a liberal who can deliver (a la FDR and LBJ) than a progressive who can't or (out of ideological orthodoxy) won't.

Not sold yet, and 2016 is a long way away, but he's certainly credible.

[msongs]

2. better check his record on all the various issues first. many are more important than any marriage n