Paterson condemns Kennedy leaks

ALBANY, N.Y., Jan. 27 (UPI) -- New York Gov. David Paterson has drawn criticism for his handling of Caroline Kennedy, who was in the running for the state's open U.S. Senate seat.

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the treatment of Kennedy, the daughter of slain President John Kennedy, was "reprehensible," The New York Times reported Tuesday. There were also leaked allegations that Kennedy had problems with taxes and in her marriage.

"It is as good an example of cheap, dirty politics as you could ever find," Bloomberg said Monday.

The newspaper said since Paterson appointed U.S. Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand he has sought to undo some of the political damage he suffered in his selection process.

"There have been leaks coming from my administration throughout this entire process of choosing a senator, of contradictory types of information," Paterson said. "Now, as you know, this is a pretty serious thing, and actually one that I would condemn."