By Heather Grossmann
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
Well, that was awkward.
Gov. David Paterson showed up unexpectedly at the Thursday birthday party of rumored 2010 gubernatorial rival Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, raising eyebrows all around.
"I'm just here to wish Andrew a merry Christmas and a happy birthday," Paterson said to the New York Post.
Paterson's campaign spokesperson said that the two had enjoyed some "pleasant conversation," according to the Daily News. The governor had been invited by the A.G.'s 2010 campaign, but it was surprising that he actually showed up.
It turns out that Paterson was already at the Sheraton New York's midtown location — where Cuomo's party was — for another event, so he decided to pop by.
The birthday party did double as a fundraiser for Cuomo, who is expected to have nearly four-times as much money in his campaign coffers as Paterson come the next campaign-finance filing deadline, Jan. 15.
The approximately 1,000 guests were treated to a performance by Bon Jovi, and the evening reportedly raised $1 million for Cuomo.
The Post’s sources said that Paterson attended the event on a reconnaissance mission, looking to see who was rubbing shoulders — and doling out dollars — to Cuomo.
"David is desperate. He's calling up everybody looking for money," the source said.
