Governor Eliot Spitzer, the first term Democrat who won in a landslide in the 2006 election, has resigned. The former Attorney General, who made his reputation as a tough prosecutor, has stepped down after revelations of his involvement with a high priced, international prostitution ring. Spitzer’s resignation will be effective this Monday. Lieutenant Governor David Paterson will be sworn in as the state’s Chief Executive at that time.

Spitzer again apologized to his family, saying he was deeply sorry for not living up to what was expected of him. He also said that he sincerely apologized to every New Yorker. He added, "I cannot allow for my private failings to disrupt the people's work.”

Gov. Spitzer left his Manhattan apartment late this morning, his wife at his side, for the drive to the Governor's New York City office. It is there that he announced his resignation.

State Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno held a press conference in Albany this morning. Bruno outlined how the structure of the top level of state government would look after the transition to a new governor. Lt. Gov. David Paterson would become the first African-American to be Governor of the State of New York. Bruno, as Senate Majority Leader, would assume the duties of Lt. Governor until the next gubernatorial election.