After Lady Gaga kissed the mayor, the mayor took a few steps back on the riser and delivered an extra long, affectionate kiss on the lips of his longtime companion, Diana Taylor, the former state superintendent of banks.

WSJ: Mayor Goes Gaga for New Year's Kiss

The mayor said a debate on Lady Thatcher's legacy had now been added to Bristol's Festival of Ideas taking place in mid-May.

BBC: Bristol mayor wants Thatcher legacy debate

The Moynihan announcement has set off speculation that the New York race will pit first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton against New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani.

CNN: Party strategists eye potential Senate gains