N.Y.C.'s G.O.P. MAYOR BACKS EMBATTLED CUOMO

In a surprise move certain to infuriate G.O.P. bigwigs, Big Apple Mayor Rudolph Giuliani crossed party lines to endorse Democratic incumbent Mario Cuomo for Governor. Cuomo is running for his fourth term against Republican state senator George Pataki in a race that's too close to call. Both candidates had groveled for Giuliani's blessing. Today the mayor had harsh words for party colleague Pataki, who he said "personifies the status quo ... taking no risks and being guided, scripted and directed by others." The mayor had repeatedly said he was concerned that Pataki's plan to cut state income tax by 25% over four years may mean less aid to his city. Giuliani's move could serve as a major boost for Cuomo -- who needs a high turnout in the city to offset Pataki's support in the suburbs and upstate.