ALBANY, N.Y. - The level of anger and dissatisfaction with the government is evident among voters nationwide -- especially in the Big Apple.
Many New Yorkers are frustrated because of the "highs" in their lives -- cost of living, rent, and tax rates.
"We are [upset] and we don't quite know the way out," said New York resident Keith Barber. "Some real tough decision are going to have to be made and it's not going to be pretty."
And the discontent has all eyes on the state's gubernatorial race.
Democratic Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is ahead in the latest polls, but enthusiasm is gaining behind Carl Paladino -- a brash Buffalo businessman with no political experience.
Polls show seven out of 10 New York voters are upset with the way things are unfolding in Washington, but nine out of 10 are also angry with the way things are unfolding in their home state.
"I wish it was a more competitive election, quite frankly," New York resident Geoff Flynn said. "I tend to think we are about to elect more of the same."
"Production of jobs is probably the single greatest priority for the next governor," Cuomo said.
The well-known attorney general is leading in the crowded race of seven candidates. Paladino is a distant second, and supporters of the Republican and Tea Party candidate are passionate.
"I am a reflection of the frustration of the people," Paladino said. 'Some people want to call that anger. [I'd] rather use the word frustration."
His biggest cheerleader is a registered Democrat -- his wife Cathy.
Both spoke with CBN News about the campaign and the ugly headlines after he voiced his opposition to gay marriage.
"I don't read a lot of it because I know who he is," Cathy said. "I don't recognize this person they are writing about."
"This establishment group that runs things, this status quo group, they've been feeding at the public trough for so long, they know no other way," Paladino said. "From the perspective of the people, they are tired of that."
Paladino is an Albany outsider, fed up with New York politics. But his Democratic opponent -- the son of a former New York governor -- said he's mad, too.
"I understand the disgust at Albany and I share it," Cuomo said.
It's now up to New Yorkers to decide who can really fix the Empire State.