Rob Astorino To Cuomo: Reveal Agreement With Working Families Party

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Gov. Andrew Cuomo should "reveal the deal" that secured him the support of the Working Families Party, Cuomo's Republican challenger, Rob Astorino, said Monday.

Some in the third party -- backed by labor unions and liberal activists -- reportedly had reservations about nominating the Democratic incumbent because of his centrist policies. But after weeks of negotiations, the Working Families Party's nominating committee voted to give Cuomo the party's line on the ballot, ensuring he won't face a challenger from his left.

Addressing reporters, including WCBS 880's Paul Murnane, on Monday, Astorino accused Cuomo of groveling before a fringe group, and said if there was some sort of deal worked out, it toes the line of bribery.

"I'm saying that it certainly stinks," the Westchester County executive said.

"If we have the highest taxes, worst business climate -- does anyone think it's a good idea to make a very sharp turn left, which would result in higher taxes and higher spending?" Astorino added.

Hank Sheinkopf, a Democratic political consultant, said Astorino shouldn't cast stones.

"He has also made deals himself with other parties, some of which people might consider fringe," Sheinkopf told Murnane.

"There are some who would characterize the Conservative Party as extreme as well. So what Mr. Astorino is talking about is quite unclear."

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