In a statement released to the press, Cox said, "I've traveled from one end of this state to the other - not because I was running for office, but because I've been serving the people of New York."

Though Cox has never held public office, Basile noted that his boss "is not new to the political arena. He has been around politics, government and public service for 30 years. He is not a lightweight by any stretch of the imagination."

He currently holds several appointed positions with the state of New York, including trustee of the state university system (SUNY), chairman of the state Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, member of the state Commission on Judicial Nominations, chairman of the SUNY Finance Committee, and co-chairman of the state's Community College Committee.

Cox also served in the Reagan administration from 1981-83.

The prospective candidate's statement included a thinly veiled barb at Mrs. Clinton's well-known presidential ambition, which is expected to become an issue in the 2006 campaign.

"New York needs a Senator in the majority, dedicated solely to New York and capable of moving legislation for the betterment of this state. Fewer press conferences. More results."

On Tuesday, Westchester County District Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced she was considering a run for statewide office, igniting immediate speculation that she might also take on Sen. Clinton.

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