Spitzer Announces Nine Adviser Nominations
Governor-elect Spitzer nominated nine commissioners and top advisers to his administration yesterday, including a secretary of state nominee who has longstanding ties to the Bronx Democratic machine.
Ramin Talaie
Governor-elect Spitzer began building his staff yesterday by announcing his nominations for nine state government positions, including comissioners of the Office of Children and Family Services, Division of Human Rights, and Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
The nominee, Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez, is now vice president of government and public affairs for Cablevision. Previously, she has served as president of the Hispanic Federation and as a chief of staff to Assemblyman Roberto Ramirez, a top political player in the Bronx. She has also been a registered lobbyist.
"She has held many different positions that prepare her for this job," Mr. Spitzer said yesterday in announcing her appointment.
The governor-elect also appointed a holdover from the Cuomo and Pataki administrations, Brian Fischer, to head the Department of Correctional Services. Mr. Fischer now runs the Sing Sing Correctional Facility.
Among the other appointments announced yesterday:
The executive director of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, Carol Ash, as commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
A senior vice president of the United Way of New York, Gladys Carrion, as commissioner of the Office of Children and Family Services
A senior vice president at the National Urban League, Kumiki Gibson, as commissioner of the Division of Human Rights
The chief of staff at the city's Human Resources Administration, David Hansell, as commissioner of the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
The clerk of Erie County, David Swarts, as commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles
A deputy comptroller, Laura Anglin, as first deputy budget director
A deputy attorney general under Mr. Spitzer, Richard Rifkin, as special counsel.
