After Ms. Molinari returned to New York to work as a television host, Mr. Patrone worked for the New York Republican State Committee as director of field operations for Rudy Giuliani's successful run for mayor. He later served as legislative director for Rep. Vito J. Fossella (R-N.Y.). In 1994 Mr. Patrone was the director of field operations for Attorney General Dennis Vacco, helping him win his first bid for statewide office in New York. A 1990 graduate of Fordham University with a bachelor's degree in English and a concentration in media studies, Mr. Patrone earned a law degree at the Touro Law Center.