There will be a new governor next year, but is Albany likely to change? New York State’s turbulent politics and bleak fiscal situation have made this year’s budget among the more difficult in recent history. Lieutenant Governor Ravitch attempted to mobilize long-term fiscal accountability, but the Paterson administration chose a different path to attempt fiscal control. What can be learned from the crisis, and what will happen to state and local government — and the politics that drive our fiscal decisions — if the economy doesn't recover soon?

Keynote: Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch

Lt. Gov. Ravitch will then join a discussion with: Gerald Benjamin, Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Associate Vice President of Regional Engagement, SUNY New Paltz Blair Horner, Legislative Director, New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) Liz Krueger, State Senator, New York State Carol O'Cleireacain, Senior Fellow, The Rockefeller Institute of Government

Moderated by: Azi Paybarah, Political Reporter, WNYC

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Supported by the Sirus Fund and the Milano Foundation.