Paterson criticizes Bloomberg's remarks

Gov. Paterson slams Mayor Bloomberg over 'inappropriate' comments on getting cig taxes from Indians

By Kenneth LovettGov. Paterson this morning shot down as "inappropriate" a recent controversial comment by Mayor Bloomberg over the state's effort to collect taxes on the sale of cigarettes by Indian tribes.

Bloomberg suggested that Paterson stare down threats of Indian violence by standing on the state Thruway with a cowboy hat and shotgun while delivering the message the taxes will be collected.

"I love the mayor, but this is a very dangerous situation," Paterson said during his weekly appearance on the John Gambling show on WOR-AM'.

Paterson, who plans to begin collecting taxes on cigarettes sold by Indian nations on Sept. 1, said he is not looking to "raise the tension of a potentially dangerous situation with any kind of rhetoric."Comment:  For more on the subject, see Indians Rally Against Bloomberg and Senecas Denounce Bloomberg's Remarks.