March 12, 2008
New York governor Eliot Spitzer officially tendered his resignation today after being caught up in a high-end prostitution ring. Spitzer, who was governor for less than 15 months and had a profound effect on changes in the music industry, said his resignation is effective March 17. Lieutenant Governor David Paterson will serve out the rest of Spitzer's term, which expires Dec. 31, 2010. In an appearance that lasted 140 seconds at his Midtown Manhattan office, the governor offered an apology to his family and to the public and said he would devote himself to serving "the common good."
"From those to whom much is given, much is expected," Spitzer said, according to the New York Times. "I have been given much: the love of my family, the faith and trust of the people of New York and the chance to lead this state. I am deeply sorry that I did not live up to what was expected of me. Over the course of my public life, I have insisted — I believe correctly — that people regardless of their position or power take responsibility for their conduct. I can and will ask no less of myself. For this reason, I am resigning from the office of governor."
It remains unclear whether Spitzer will face any legal charges from his involvement with the prostitution ring. His lawyer, Michele Hirschman, reached out to federal prosecutors this week to strike a deal in hopes of avoiding charges, says the Times. However, the U.S. attorney investigating the case issued a statement shortly after the resignation saying that his office does not have any arrangement with the governor.
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