US News

PATERSON: SENATOR DECISION IS DAYS AWAY

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson insists he still hasn’t decided who he will appoint to the Senate seat expected to soon be vacated by Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Caroline Pick ‘Certain’ for Dave

The Democrat says he hopes to announce a decision by the weekend from the field that includes Caroline Kennedy.

In Washington for the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, Paterson says he has not made a decision despite news reports citing aides and advisers close to him.

He says he narrowed the field of as many as 20 hopefuls, but he wouldn’t say how many names are on his short list or who is on it.

He also says he hasn’t yet evaluated the lengthy questionnaires from candidates in which he seeks background information including personal finances.

Clinton will soon by confirmed as Obama’s secretary of state.