NEW YORK, NY July 06, 2009 —Governor Paterson is pleading with state senators again to work out their differences and start passing crucial legislation.

PATERSON: Put down your differences, lay down your weapons, come in the chamber, sign to pass the legislation I'll sign it tonight and the relief for local governments should not be held hostage in the middle of a political fight.

Two good government groups and Queens Assemblyman Mike Gianaris wrote a letter to Paterson, saying they believe he has the power, under the state constitution, to appoint someone to fill the vacant position of Lieutenant Governor, breaking the 31-31 stalemate. Republicans disagree, and say the appointment of a lieutenant governor would add to the chaos.