David Paterson: podcast appearances and interviews

David Paterson is an American politician who has served as Ontario's Representative in Washington, D.C. He previously held the position of governor of New York from 2008 to 2010, making him the first legally blind governor of a U.S. state and the first African-American governor of New York. Paterson's political career includes work in the Queens County District Attorney's office and on the staff of Manhattan borough president David Dinkins. He was elected to the New York State Senate in 1985, a seat once held by his father, Basil Paterson, and later served as the Senate minority leader. In 2006, he was chosen as the running mate for gubernatorial candidate Eliot Spitzer, and they were elected with 65 percent of the vote. Following Spitzer's resignation amid a scandal, Paterson was sworn in as governor on March 17, 2008. During his tenure, he navigated the challenges of the Great Recession, implemented budget cuts, and made notable appointments including Kirsten Gillibrand to the U.S. Senate and Richard Ravitch as lieutenant governor. Paterson announced he would not seek a full term in 2010 after initially campaigning for re-election. His administration was marred by allegations of soliciting improper gifts and making false statements, leading to a fine for accepting free Yankees tickets. Since leaving office, he has worked as a radio talk show host, served as chairman of the New York Democratic Party, and authored a book titled Black, Blind, & in Charge, focusing on leadership and overcoming adversity.