It's hard not to feel good about the potential for David Paterson as the new governor of New York. As far as first impressions go, he is smart, quick on his feet, firm, seems genuine and has a disarming sense of humor.
"He's going to need a good sense of humor," Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno told a reporter on Paterson's swearing-in day.
Bruno also had many public words of praise for Paterson, with whom he dealt in the Senate. Of course anything would have to be an improvement over the terrible relationship between Bruno and Spitzer.
But today government gets back to work and Gov. Paterson starts his new job. Don't be disappointed if his honeymoon with the Legislature is short-lived.
Bruno and Paterson have different political philosophies, constituents and priorities. So how long do you think the new nice-nice lasts. What time is it?