David Paterson: The next governor of New York

Paterson, 53, was elected in November 2006, and focuses on stem cell research, alternative energy, reducing domestic violence, and increasing the role minority- and women-owned businesses play in New York State, according to his official web site.

Paterson represented Harlem in the New York State Senate for more than 20 years and became Senate Minority Leader in 2002, the first non-white person to hold that position.

The lieutenant governor, who is legally blind, is nationally recognized as a leading advocate for the visually and physically impaired. He is a member of the American Foundation for the Blind, an avid runner and a Democratic superdelegate.

Paterson holds a degree in history from Columbia University and a J.D. from Hofstra Law School. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Columbia's School for International and Public Affairs and currently lives in Harlem with his wife, Michelle Paige Paterson, and their two children.