Statement From Senator Flanagan Regarding Governor Spitzer's Resignation

Yesterday's resignation of Eliot Spitzer will hopefully close the book on this sad chapter in our state's history and signal a new beginning for all of our residents. Incoming Governor David Paterson, who is well-known and respected, will now be entrusted with the difficult task of rebuilding the trust our residents have in the Executive office and I look forward to working with him to restore that confidence.

Like many others throughout New York State, my thoughts go out to the Spitzer family. But I also realize that now is the time to move forward with the important business of our state. When incoming Governor Paterson is sworn in on March 17th, his leadership and character will be essential in those efforts.

But that is next Monday - today, the State Legislature will continue working on a budget. That work, for me, includes continuing my efforts to make sure that our schools get their fair share of state aid, to fight for the tax relief that our taxpayers sorely need and to protect our region.

I look forward to working with future Governor Paterson to bring these goals to reality and to move our state forward.