Gov. Paterson has an urgent message for the developers of a planned mosque near Ground Zero: Lets talk relocation.
Paterson hopes to powwow with mosque leaders this week to press them to move the controversial project – possibly to state-owned land.
The governor revealed his plans to calm the fight over the mosque’s location – which has erupted into a national political firestorm – in a phone call Tuesday to Rep. Pete King (R-L.I.).
“He wants to offer state property,” likely in a sale, said King, who also favors moving the planned Islamic center slated to be built two blocks from Ground Zero.
President Obama touched off a national clash by supporting the mosque, allowing many Republicans to turn the debate into a contentious campaign wedge issue.
King said Paterson wants to persuade leaders to relocate Park51 in a “good-faith” nod to opponents who say the project is offensive to 9/11 victims and their families.
Full Story: Will Ground Zero mosque move? Gov. Paterson to meet with developers on new location
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