Long Island congressman set to "do Utica"

Story Created: Dec 19, 2008 at 5:34 PM EST

Story Updated: Dec 19, 2008 at 5:34 PM EST

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. (AP) - Rep. Gary Ackerman is doing Utica.

The Long Island congressman who rankled upstate sensibilities with a derogatory comment about the central New York city is expected to visit Utica on Monday.

Earlier this month, Ackerman told a radio interviewer that he was not interested in replacing Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton if she's confirmed as secretary of state.

"I don't do Utica, and that's a qualification for the job," the sharp-tongued lawmaker said, setting off an immediate backlash up and down the Erie Canal.

A spokesman for Utica Mayor David Roefaro says Ackerman will tour the city with the mayor and Rep. Michael Arcuri (D-Utica). A recently renovated theater and arts center are on the tour.

Ackerman's spokesman did not immediately return a call for comment.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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