David Paterson

David A. Paterson became New York's 55th Governor on March 17, 2008, and marked his entry into office as the state’s first black governor and the second legally-blind governor in U.S. history. In his initial address as Governor, Paterson detailed his vision to confront and surmount the challenges facing New York, aiming to foster a prosperous future for all its residents. During his tenure, Governor Paterson was proactive in addressing the State's fiscal challenges, even before the national awareness of the economic downturn heightened. His leadership spanned across several crises, including the most severe economic crisis New York State had ever faced, during which he implemented comprehensive reforms affecting various sectors.

Governor Paterson's administration was distinguished by significant reforms in health care and social policy. He rationalized New York's Medicaid reimbursement system to enhance investment in primary and preventative care. His legislative achievements include the overhaul of the Rockefeller Drug Laws and the enactment of the Bigger Better Bottle Bill after nearly a decade of effort. Moreover, under his leadership, reforms were initiated in the Empire Zone Program, the basic welfare grant was increased for the first time in 20 years, and unemployment insurance benefits were extended, all aimed at assisting those affected by economic turmoil and unemployment. In a vital move for transportation infrastructure, Governor Paterson successfully negotiated an MTA bailout plan, preventing drastic service reductions.

A strong advocate for civil rights, Governor Paterson introduced landmark legislation that ended legal discrimination against same-sex couples in New York, marking a significant step forward in civil rights. His political career began in 1985 when, at the age of 31, he was elected to represent Harlem in the New York State Senate, becoming the youngest Senator at the time. He broke new ground in 2003 as New York's first non-white legislative leader when he became the Senate's Minority Leader. His pioneering continued in 2007 when he became New York's first African-American Lieutenant Governor. In these roles, he championed crucial initiatives, including a $600 million stem cell research initiative, a statewide renewable energy strategy, actions to combat domestic violence, and support for minority and women-owned businesses.

Nationally recognized as an advocate for the visually and physically impaired, Governor Paterson maintains affiliations with the American Foundation for the Blind and serves on the Board of the Achilles Track Club. His ongoing commitment to public service and advocacy underscores his influential role in both state and national politics.