Paladino is mulling run for governor

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - He's been a voice for change here in the queen city. Now Carl Paladino is looking to take his tough talk style to Albany.

Carl Paladino is known for his development projects and fight to remove the Ogden and Breckenridge tolls. Now he has his sights on possibly shaking things up in Albany.

Carl Paladino tells News 4 he hasn't been impressed by what's been happening with New York State government over the past two decades.

"I'll go in there and turn the whole place upside down because I'm not going to play by their rules," said Paladino.

The Buffalo developer and attorney is referring to rules of major party politics. Now he's seriously considering running for governor with statewide backing from the "Tea Party" government reformists. If he runs and wins, he says it's one term and out.

Paladino said, "I'm certainly willing to try because I have no interest in being a politician."

Paladino is no stranger to challenging politicians locally or statewide. However, if he runs for governor, he would be a novice to run for political office. And he says he's not daunted by the $50 to 60 million political experts say is need to mount a credible campaign.

"You get the people with you. Then you don't have to pay all that silly money to buy advertising, and buy this, consultants for this, consultants for that. Polls for this, polls for that. That's all the nonsense they have created," explained Paladino.

Paladino says when it comes to getting things done in Albany, he doesn't think announced candidates, Governor David Paterson, Republican Rick Lazio, or expected candidate, NY Attorney General Andrew Cuomo can get the job done.

Paladino said, "You need a wartime type of leader. You need to wreck them. You need somebody to go in there and turn them upside down."

On the streets of the queen city, people are giving their take on Paladino's possible political plans.

Jim Duggan said, "He seems to be an independent thinker who always expresses thoughtful and intelligent views."

"Sometimes business people when they get into politics, they have other interests in mind, said Gerald Washington.

Jose Morales commented, "Maybe he's too decent for Albany right now. You know the good guys don't usually win anyway."

Will Carl run? News 4 asked him that question. He tells us he's learning as he goes and expects to make a decision at some point in the future.

We'll let you know what he decides.