Paladino's 9/11 remark outrages victims

NYC, N.Y. (WIVB) - Gubernatorial candidate and prominent Buffalo developer Carl Paladino keeps coming under fire for a controversial comment about the health care reform bill.

It's a comment he made on the radio in New York City that rubbed some families of 9/11 victims the wrong way.

Paladino began, "I believe in change."

After he addressed members of the Rotary Club in Elma Wednesday morning, we had the chance to ask Carl Paladino for clarification about a comment he made Tuesday on the Curtis Sliwa Radio Show regarding the health care bill.

Paladino stated, "This day, the day that bill was passed, will be remembered just as 9/11 was remembered in history. It was an attempt by these people in Washington to defy the Constitution."

Paladino explained, "I didn't compare. I said we're gonna remember the date of Obamacare like we remember 9/11. I could've said Pearl Harbor, I could've said the day JFK died, but if that bothered them so badly, they better put their seatbelt on because it's gonna be an interesting ride here in the next few months."

Paladino also stated on his website that he believes the health care bill will kill more Americans through deteriorating health care than were lost in 9/11.

"I'm not politically correct, no, I never will be," said Paladino.

But some members of the West Seneca Rotary Club prefer him that way.

John Cleary said, "It struck a good note with everybody with the way the economy has been the last two years and the way government has changed. They're looking for something new and fresh."

"Carl's message was excellent. We need someone like him to help us have hope for the government in New York State," said Rich Robinson.