There were high hopes for Eliot Sptizer when he became the 54th governor in New York State history, but his political career came to an end on Wednesday morning, March 12, when he resigned his office after being connected to a prostitution ring.

"I look at my time as governor as what might have been," Spitzer, who before being elected governor in November 2006 served as state attorney general, said. "I'm deeply sorry I did not live up to what was expected of me."

In a statement he made on Wednesday morning, Spitzer apologized to his family, including wife Silda, and the people of New York for his actions as he announced his resignation effective Monday, March 17. He added that the remorse he felt would always be with him. Spitzer also vowed to concentrate on healing his family and then would try once again outside of politics to serve the common good.

As a result of Spitzer's resignation, current Lieutenant Governor David Paterson will be sworn in as governor on March 17. "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," Paterson said. "It is now time for Albany to get back to work as the people of this state expect from us."

Of Paterson becoming governor, Republican Assemblyman Rob Walker said, "[Paterson's] experience as a former senator will allow for a smooth transition and provide the executive office with a wealth of knowledge on the budget process."

With Paterson becoming governor, Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno will fill the responsibilities of lieutenant governor in addition to his own position. "It's now time for us to move forward," Bruno said. "My heart goes out to his wife and family at this time."

New York State Senator Craig Johnson, who received strong support from Spitzer last year when he won a special election for the 7th Senate District, said, "This state is bigger than just one person. Eliot Spitzer's resignation was the only choice that would ensure that the needs of all residents are not lost as this scandal continues to unfold."

Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi, who ran against Spitzer in the 2006 Democratic primary, added, "We are all shocked and saddened by the revelations regarding Governor Spitzer. My sympathy goes out to the Spitzer family as well as my best wishes for better times ahead." Suozzi's best wishes also go out to his good friend David Paterson, "to whom we pledge our complete support and cooperation, to make his transition as smooth and successful as possible."

According to Suozzi, "In America, our institutions are stronger than the people who preside over them. We have a system of government premised on the fact that the individuals that serve us are subject to failure. But that same system is designed to ensure that no matter the setback, we as a people will be able to change course and continue to move forward. And under Governor Paterson, we will move forward. We wish him great success."

Regardless of the allegations against Spitzer and his resignation earlier this week, local officials say working to ensure that the state budget, due April 1, remains the top priority.

"I would like to wish Mr. Spitzer, his wife and children well during this difficult time [however his] resignation from office now makes this a private matter and I hope that we can now move forward," said Walker. "We are entering a critical time during the legislative session, as the state budget is due in less than three weeks."

Johnson added, "Governor Spitzer's shocking and disturbing actions, for which he alone bears responsibility, have simply eliminated his ability to govern. This state simply can not afford to have the governing process continue to be hampered by Governor Spitzer's legal and personal entanglements."