New York governor quits over prostitution scandal
Wednesday, 12 Mar 2008 15:50
New York governor Eliot Spitzer quits after being linked to prostitution ring
In Focus
Just as they did in southern Lebanon in the summer of 2006, the Israeli army is dominating headlines by pursuing military action against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Full Story
New York's governor has quit after being linked to a prostitution ring.
Eliot Spitzer, 48, will step down as of Monday after saying in a brief statement to reporters today that he wanted to "atone for his private failings".
The governor said in a news conference earlier this week that his behaviour had been unacceptable but did not provide any details.
Allegations claim that Mr Spitzer was identified by federal agents arranging to meet a prostitute in a hotel in Washington.
He was named in an investigation of a prostitution organisation, although he currently faces no charges in the case.
"I cannot allow my private failings to disrupt the people's work," he said.
Mr Spitzer apologised for not living up to "what was expected of me" and said that he wanted to "sincerely apologise" to every New Yorker and those who believed in what he stood for.
Power will now pass to David Paterson, who will become New York's first black governor.
Mr Spitzer was nicknamed the "Sheriff of Wall Street" after fighting organised crime and corporate corruption during his time as state attorney general.
He became governor in January 2007 and is a key ally of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, though she has refused to discuss the current allegations.
"I don't have any comment on that," she said when asked about the sex scandal.
"Obviously, I am sending my best wishes and thoughts to the governor and to his family."
Reports claim that Mr Spitzer was caught making arrangements to meet a prostitute who charged $1,000 (£494) an hour.