In Pataki, a Politician for All Seasoned Parties

New York Gov. George Pataki’s campaign staff is starting to joke that the Republican just might be able to win a Democratic primary in his bid for reelection.

While it’s only a joke, what is happening in New York this year is no laughing matter for the Democrats.

Though they hold a 2-million-voter enrollment advantage over Republicans, state Democrats have watched with growing alarm as Pataki puts together a string of endorsements from unions, minorities and even some liberals--constituencies normally key to Democrats.

“I have intentionally gone out and made it plain that my goal is to be the governor for all New Yorkers,” Pataki said. “For the longest time, in minority communities, Republicans never showed up and . . . as a result the communities were hurt.”