Teflon Espada?

Now that the state Senate shakeup is over and the senators have gotten back to work, Gov. David Paterson has said he wants to curb the perks that can lure lawmakers into switching allegiances and creating another political coup.

Meannwhile, the man who spurred this monthlong stalemate -- Pedro Espada Jr. -- is up for re-election next year. Despite widespread criticism of Albany, many of Espada's constituents either don't know who he is or don't seem to hold much against him.

Bronx resident Jose Rosado is very unhappy with the chaos at the state Senate in Albany, but he's not ready to pass judgment on his own senator, Pedro Espada

"He's doing an average job," Rosado said.

Espada stunned the political world Thursday by switching sides again in the Senate, ending the stalemate and claiming the title of majority leader. He was roundly criticized by people in his own party. But some in his district defend the first Latino majority leader.

Espada's court bid to stop Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch was put on hold. A judge will hear arguments next week.

Meantime, the Senate has voted to approve New York City's sales tax increase. Mayor Mike Bloomberg said it is about time.