Giuliani's Chief Lobbyist in Albany: A Career Built on Patronage and Politics

Strategic Insights -

Robert Harding, Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani's chief lobbyist in Albany, has come under scrutiny for his appointment, which many see as a prime example of patronage politics. Harding's father, Raymond, is the leader of New York's Liberal Party, and his appointment has sparked questions about his qualifications and potential conflicts of interest. Despite this, Harding maintains that he is well-qualified for his role, having worked as counsel to former Assemblyman William F. Passannante and as general counsel for the New York State Science and Technology Foundation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Robert Harding, Giuliani's chief lobbyist in Albany, is the son of Raymond Harding, the leader of New York's Liberal Party.
  • Harding's appointment has raised questions about patronage politics and potential conflicts of interest.
  • Harding maintains that he is well-qualified for his role, citing his experience as counsel to former Assemblyman William F. Passannante and as general counsel for the New York State Science and Technology Foundation.
  • Harding starts his job with a reservoir of good will among top lawmakers in both houses, who describe him as bright, straightforward, and personable.
  • However, Harding's ties to the Liberal Party and the Assembly Democrats may prove problematic in the Senate, where the Republicans control the majority.
  • Giuliani's proposals to make deep cuts in the city work force while reducing some business taxes have alienated the Assembly Democrats, particularly minority lawmakers who fear job losses and service cuts.
  • Harding has campaigned for both Democrats and Republicans, but has declined to discuss what he thinks the Liberal Party stands for or whether he has voted for a Republican other than Giuliani.

Statistics:

  • 62,469: The number of votes Giuliani received on the Liberal line in the 1993 mayoral campaign.
  • 9,129: The margin by which Giuliani won the party line vote in the Liberal Party primary.
  • 6: The number of Senate Republicans from New York City.
  • 35: The total number of Senate Republicans.
  • 58: The number of Assembly Democrats who represent districts in the city.
  • 94: The total number of Democrats in the Assembly.
  • 2.3 billion: The projected budget gap in New York City.
  • 275 million: The amount of additional state aid Giuliani is seeking to help close the budget gap.
  • 50: The percentage of the additional aid that Giuliani is seeking to come from state assumption of local Medicaid costs.

Sources:

  • "A Son of Patronage Politics." The New York Times.
  • "Robert Harding Named City Lobbyist in Albany." The New York Times.
  • "Patronage Politics and the Liberal Party." The New York Times.