Candidates surveyed on significant issues

The New York State Catholic Conference, which represents the bishops in matters of public policy, has released a candidate questionnaire for Election Day, Nov. 7.

The questionnaire was sent to all those running for state office, including governor, lieutenant governor, State Senate and Assembly, attorney general and comptroller.

The ten-question survey covers such issues as tax credits for schools, the death penalty, abortion, cloning and the definition of marriage.

The replies from the two major-party candidates for governor -- Republican John Faso and Democrat Eliot Spitzer -- showed agreement on support for education tax credits and capital punishment, but divisions on other issues.

Mr. Spitzer backs taxpayer-funded abortion and gay marriage, and opposes parental notification for abortions. Mr. Faso opposes using taxpayer money to pay for abortions, and supports parental notification of a minor's abortion and defining marriage as only between a man and a woman.

The survey was sent to all those running for state offices, regardless of party affiliation; about three-fourths of the candidates did not respond. In the Albany Diocese, for example, no race other than governor brought replies from more than one candidate.

The survey can be read by going to www.nyscatholic.org and clicking on "Catholic voter guide." The survey is broken down by dioceses for voters interested in races in their regions.

(10/26/06)