Perkins on 'Offensive' Senate Coup Rumors, Origins Of

ALBANY—I just talked to State Senator Bill Perkins about the reports that Democratic leader Malcolm Smith might be the target of a coup soon after Election Day.

"I think it's offensive that the rumor is out there," the Harlem Democrat said. "I would prefer to believe that it's someone making trouble, and that we're all on the same team trying to do the same thing for the people of the state of New York."

Over the weekend, rumored plotter Jeff Klein didn't didn't deny he was interested in the post, but has he also said that he plans to vote for Smith.

Perkins said he thought it would be "somewhat quixotic" of Klein to try and make a quick move, but that "usually where there's smoke there's fire."

The Senate Democrats are set to convene on Wednesday; Perkins said he expects the meeting will be for planning how the conference - which he is confident will gain the majority tomorrow - can work toward bridging looming budget deficits.