Paterson plans to seek election, orders hiring halt

Gov. David Paterson called for a hiring freeze on all nonessential state positions yesterday and earlier in the day hinted at retooling the state's popular property-tax-rebate program, according to an Albany media report.

In a letter yesterday to the head of state agencies, Paterson warned that only "job openings absolutely essential to your agency's operations and protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers are to be filled,” according to the article.

In yesterday's interview, Paterson said he also plans to seek election as governor in 2010.