It looks like the story broken by Haartz.com may be accurate, but a change in location is far from a done deal.. CBS 2 in New York City reported late last night that the developers are willing to meet with New York Governor David Paterson to discuss a possible solution and to talk about state land that may be available.
What I find interesting is that Governor Paterson is concerned about this effort being sabotaged… by New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and President Barack Obama…
Sources tell CBS 2’s Kramer that Gov. Paterson is concerned that Mayor Mike Bloomberg, a staunch supporter of putting the mosque at ground zero, and President Barack Obama, might be advising mosque leaders to dig in their heels and insist on the present location.
But there was a glimmer of hope that they are open to a compromise.
While I understand acknowledging the constitutional right this group has to build, what I don’t get is the lack of sensitivity and endorsement of an effort that clearly lacks wisdom. President Obama especially finds himself in an awkward position (hence the backtracking) of being on the opposite side of the Democratic members of Congress representing New York who are serving in potential swing districts. I especially liked what Congressman Tim Bishop (D-NY 1) said:
As a New Yorker, I believe Ground Zero is sacred ground and should unite us. If the group seeking to build the mosque is sincere in its efforts to bring people together, I would urge them to seek an alternative location which is less divisive. I dispute the wisdom of building at that location, not the constitutional right.
I completely agree with that sentiment. Hopefully this is the beginning of the end.
HT: Memeorandum