EDITORIAL: New York needs an A-1 No. 2

Gov. David A. Paterson, when he was No. 2, reveled in self-deprecating jokes about the insignificance of the lieutenant governor's post. Recent events have taught us that's no laughing matter - and it's time to elevate the job to a fuller partnership.

As the state's Democrats and Republicans head into their nominating confabs over the next two weeks, they should choose candidates who are up to scrutiny as potential future governors. Executive experience is important, along with political skills to lead and manage people. Budgeting or financial expertise would also be a plus in these times.

Candidates for governor should be asked about the role they will give their second in command. The lieutenant governor should be inside the inner circle, ready to step into the lead. Until succession rules are clarified in the state constitution, all the people near the top must be top quality.

Often in New York, a running mate is chosen to balance the ticket - to help the gubernatorial candidate get elected. That means that a No. 2 is selected for racial, gender, age or geographic diversity. Broadening representation is valuable, if lieutenant governors are given a meaningful role in governing. But leadership should rank above ticket balancing in the selection.

For gubernatorial candidates, choosing an excellent lieutenant governor must be viewed for what it is: a test of their qualification for office. hN