Carl Paladino American businessman Date of Birth: 24.08.1946 Country: USA

1. Carl Paladino: A Buffalo Business Tycoon
2. Early Education and Military Service
3. Ellicott Development Company and Legal Partnership
4. Political Involvement and Republican Affiliation
5. Gubernatorial Candidate and Controversial Views
6. Family Life and Personal Challenges

Carl Paladino: A Buffalo Business Tycoon

Born on August 24, 1946, to Italian immigrant parents, Carl Pasquale Paladino is a second-generation American. His father's involvement in the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression provided support and employment for young men.

Early Education and Military Service

Paladino attended Bishop Timon - St. Jude High School in South Buffalo and later St. Bonaventure University. In 1971, he earned his Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law. He served three years of active duty in the U.S. Army and seven years in the reserves, retiring as a captain in 1981.

Ellicott Development Company and Legal Partnership

In 1973, Paladino founded Ellicott Development Company, a real estate firm that became a major player in Buffalo. He also holds a position as senior managing partner in the law firm Paladino, Cavan, and Quinlivan, which specializes in corporate law and real estate transactions.

Political Involvement and Republican Affiliation

Initially a Democrat, Paladino became a Republican in 2005 after Mayor Anthony Masiello left office, citing the Democratic Party's increasingly liberal stance. Throughout his career, he and his businesses have actively supported political candidates and organizations, including both major parties.

Gubernatorial Candidate and Controversial Views

On April 5, 2010, Paladino entered the New York gubernatorial race as a Republican candidate backed by the Tea Party movement. His platform focuses on tax reform in Albany and improvements to the state's education system. However, his ultraconservative views and controversial statements have raised concerns about their impact on the electorate.

Family Life and Personal Challenges

Paladino married Mary Catherine Hannon in 1970. They have two children and lost another son in a car accident in 2009. He also has a daughter from an extramarital affair and maintains a relationship with the child and her mother.