The New York Times reports that Governor Spitzer is trying to close corporate tax loopholes to more equitably distribute taxpayer burdens throughout the state and raise money without having to raise taxes.

State Republicans are fighting with him about it because they're convinced that the only way to get the financial services sector to stay in Lower Manhattan is to kiss up to those well-heeled corporations.

NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg is calling in favors from State Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno to derail Spitzer's budget.

I guess reform is difficult when you have to deal with Republicans who like their slimy under-the-table dealings and don't want to change them.