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Spitzer quits, apologizes to New York |
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By Ian Swanson
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Posted: 03/12/08 12:12 PM [ET] |
New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer (D) announced his resignation Wednesday, two days after reports emerged that he spent thousands of dollars on trysts with prostitutes.
Spitzer, who made his political career as a crusader against special interests and corruption, said his resignation would be effective Monday. In brief remarks to reporters, he signaled his political life was over and that he would look back at his time as governor “with a sense of what might have been.”
Spitzer apologized to the people of New York and said he was stepping down because he could not allow his “private failings” to disrupt the people’s work.
“I am deeply sorry I did not live up to what was expected of me,” said Spitzer, who took no questions after his brief remarks. “I sincerely apologize.”
Spitzer said he would work to heal himself and his family as he leaves public life. He also said he would work to rise after his fall from grace, and attempt to “serve the public good” outside of politics.
Lt. Gov. David Paterson will succeed Spitzer, becoming the first African-American governor in New York state’s history.
Few New York lawmakers called for Spitzer to quit, even as reports circulated Tuesday that his resignation was imminent. An exception was Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.), who said Spitzer had brought shame across New York.
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