The recent murders of two upstate police officers have Gov. George Pataki renewing his call to reinstate the death penalty in New York.

He made similar statements four months ago when an officer was gunned down in New York City.

But the time to have a conversation about the death penalty is best held when emotions aren't running so high.

Pataki successfully lobbied to reinstate New York's death penalty in 1995.

Indeed, it was one of the main platforms that got him elected to office.

The law had been rescinded 22 years beforehand and reinstatement legislation had been passed in Albany and vetoed by former governors for 18 consecutive years before Pataki became governor.

A state appeals court later struck down provisions of the law as unconstitutional and imposed a moratorium on executions.

To talk about the need for capital punishment immediately after the murders of police officers may be smart politics, but it's in poor taste.

Public officials - Pataki included - made public statements last week praising the duty and sacrifice of law enforcement officers and expressing condolences to the families and co-workers directly affected by the crimes. Those sentiments are expected and likely appreciated by the grieving, but that's where it should end.

Capital punishment is a topic as important - and divisive - as they come.

Abusing an atmosphere of shock and grief to press for legislation is an attempt to whip the public into outrage, first against the killers and subsequently the lawmakers who oppose the death penalty.

Would a potential death sentence alter the actions of those who choose to shoot at the police?

Maybe. Maybe not.

But there will be plenty of time for constructive dialogue after emotions have settled a bit.