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News emerged over the weekend that President Obama has been urging Gov. David Paterson to seriously consider bowing out of the race for governor, since the president and his advisers don't think he has a chance of winning next fall, especially if he goes up against Rudy Giuliani. Paterson rejected the suggestion yesterday, and indicated he plans to move ahead with his campaign. This morning the two men came face to face when the president touched down in Albany to deliver an economic address at a nearby college. So how did that go? It was a little bit awkward, not surprisingly:

When Obama emerged from the jet at 11 a.m., Paterson was the first official to greet the President, who bounded down the stairs with a big smile on his face. Obama's smile faded as he shook hands with an equally grim Paterson. Obama appeared to perk up as he exchanged pleasantries with the rest of his reception committee. When Obama got into his SUV for the drive to the Hudson Valley Community College in upstate Troy, Paterson's ride was ninth in the convoy of vehicles.

President Obama shakes hands with Gov. David Paterson [NYDN]
Obama Arrives to an Awkward Hug From Paterson [NYT]