NEW YORK, NY September 21, 2009 —As New York State Democrats and the Obama Administration try and sort out who should run for governor for their party next year the Republican field is already starting to take shape. Former Republican Congressman Rick Lazio came to Times Square to announce his candidacy for governor. He says the dysfunction in Albany and a multi-billion dollar deficit put the state at a major crossroads.

LAZIO: We face a $38 billion cumulative deficit over the next few years. If we do not improve government now we will slide into insolvency and continue to hemorrhage our people and our hope.

Lazio's last bid for office was an unsuccessful campaign for US Senate in 2000 against Hillary Clinton. Most recently, Lazio has been with JP Morgan but says he's taking a leave from the Wall Street firm during the campaign. Former City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is another Republican who's said to be eyeing a run for governor.