Actually, the taxpayers in NYC support everyone else. If NYC was a separate state, it would have a surplus. The revenue you get from the city income tax of 4% on very rich people is enormous.
In any case, it's not about the money since it comes with strings (lunatic mandates and giveaways). I know a lot of Upstaters who'd be happy to have our own state and make our own way.
But if you get a chance, please ping me with your source. I live to learn :)