Campaign seasons always bring out their share of political posturing, but we expect it to reach unseen levels this October regarding the races for state Legislature.

That's because New York state finds itself affected more than any other in the nation by the Wall Street financial crisis. A powerful source of revenue - Wall Street supplies about 20 percent of the state's tax stream - is in terrible condition. And this is happening at a time when the state's budget, thanks to years of irresponsible spending decisions that drove debt higher and higher, is already facing a multi-billion dollar deficit.

So what are the state's legislators to do?

Gov. David Paterson is meeting with legislative leaders this week to discuss just that.

Here's what a responsible body of lawmakers would and could do. They'd come back to Albany and start working on some contingency plans.

They'd do so in a bipartisan manner, and they'd do it despite the fact that they'd be giving up valuable face time at home in the campaign season.

But we urge New York legislators to look at the situation differently. Too often, lawmakers running for re-election lose sight of what could be their most valuable campaign tool - a record of achievement. Incumbents have a remarkable opportunity this year to show constituents that they care first and foremost about their state and its taxpayers.

Moreover, going back to Albany to put in some work at the Capitol and legislative office building does not have to derail on-the-ground campaigning. That's what nights and weekends can be for.

What is likely to happen, though, is that both Democratic and Republican lawmakers will find a way to blame each other for failing to come back to Albany in a time of crisis to get something done.

We urge voters to reject those excuses and demand better.