Today, Eliot Spitzer announced that he is stepping down as governor of New York state, after his involvement in a high-end prostitution ring was revealed earlier this week. His resignation will be effective on March 17. Watch it:
Lt. Gov. David Paterson will now take Spitzer’s position, becoming the state’s first African-American and blind governor, and only the third African-American governor since Reconstruction.
UPDATE: Lt. Gov. David Paterson has put out a statement:
Like all New Yorkers I am saddened by what we have learned over the past several days. On a personal level Governor Spitzer and Silda have been close and steadfast friends. As an elected official the Governor has worked hard for the people of New York.
My heart goes out to him and to his family at this difficult and painful time. I ask all New Yorkers to join Michelle and me in prayer for them.
It is now time for Albany to get back to work as the people of this state expect from us.
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