Gov. David Paterson?s nominee for head of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority faced questions from Long Island elected officials Thursday as part of his confirmation process.

State Sen. Carl Marcellino (R-Syosset) said he would vote against Jay Walder's confirmation if Walder did not reconsider the payroll tax imposed as part of the MTA bailout. Walder defended the tax to News 12 Long Island as necessary. Walder was also asked about his contract, which calls for him to receive one year's salary if he's fired. He defended that as well.

Walder is scheduled to appear at two more hearings in New York and Albany. The state Senate is expected to approve his nomination.