Bob McCarthy of Buffalo News:

"We will primary good people against bad Republican legislators. We will send a message to [Senate Majority Leader] Dean Skelos that times have changed.”— 2010 Republican gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino, on his 2012 plans to take on sitting Republicans.

Paladino is targeting Republican Sens. Mark Grisanti of Buffalo, James Alesi of Monroe County and Roy McDonald of Saratoga County—but not because they all supported same-sex marriage last year.

Rather, the Buffalo real estate developer says the trio did not “keep their word” by voting recently for the millionaire’s tax. He said at least seven others may also be targeted by a “network of Paladino supporters throughout the state.”

Paladino also said he will back South Council Member Mickey Kearns in the March 20 special election for the Assembly, pointing to opponent and Democratic endorsee Chris Fahey’s close association with Rep. Brian Higgins — an official Paladino archenemy.