Paterson: Still, No Rush

ALBANY—Responding to the totally expected nomination of Hillary Clinton for secretary of state, David Paterson praised the politician he has long supported, and made it clear he is not going to announce a replacement any time soon.

In addition to calling her a "warrior," "advocate" and "the leader we need," the governor addressed (briefly) the looming next step.

"In order to appoint the best possible candidate to replace Senator Clinton, I am consulting with a wide variety of individuals from all across New York State," Paterson said in a public statement emailed to reporters. "I expect to announce Senator Clinton's replacement when the position becomes officially vacant."

Not that this is a surprise--Paterson said essentially the same thing on the night before Thanksgiving. At the same event, he dismissed the idea of a formal screening panel, saying, "The process becomes more of a problem than the selection because, how many people would you need on a screening panel for everyone in New York to be happy?"

It's a fair bet that Paterson will be pushed for details at his 2 p.m. press conference.

Here's his full statement:

"Since the founding of our nation, New York has often sent our best leaders to Washington where they confronted the great challenges of their day. We are proud that Senator Clinton will join that venerable tradition as Secretary of State. She is the leader we need to partner with President-Elect Obama to confront the international challenges we face today. I can think of no one more qualified for the position at this critical moment in our history.

"New York will lose a powerful voice in the Senate. But the nation will gain a powerful voice in the world. Senator Clinton's wisdom and record of leadership will make her a strong advocate for the cause of liberty, human rights, and the rule of law. Her courage and experience will give our nation a tested warrior in the fight against terrorism and extremism.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I want to thank Senator Clinton for her service to this State. I look forward to continuing to work with her in her new capacity.

"In order to appoint the best possible candidate to replace Senator Clinton, I am consulting with a wide variety of individuals from all across New York State. I expect to announce Senator Clinton's replacement when the position becomes officially vacant."