Black Governor of New York in the Wings?
By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Producer
Posted March 10, 2008 — The Governor of New York apologized to the folks he represents today for his reported ties to a prostitution ring. His fall from grace could put an African American in one of the most powerful executive spots in the country.
Gov. Eliot Spitzer, 48, did not resign, but his history of catching the “bad guys” and unearthing corruption made these recent allegations surprising.
Spitzer, a Democrate, held a news conference this afternoon and told reporters, “I have acted in a way that violates my obligation to my family and violates my or any sense of right or wrong,” he said.
Appearing with his wife Silda at his Manhattan office, Spitzer said, “I apologize first and most importantly to my family. I apologize to the public to whom I promised better.”
The governor has allegedly been linked to a high-end prostitution ring called Emperors Club VIP. The New York Times reported the most highly ranked prostitutes cost as much as $5,500 an hour.
If Spitzer is forced to step aside, Lt. Governor David Paterson would take over for the rest of the term. The New York state constitution would place the Brooklyn born veteran in one of the most powerful executive post in state government.
Paterson was first elected to the New York State Senate in 1986, and became the minority leader in 2002 and later becoming Spitzer’s second in command.
Paterson who was born legally blind made his debut on the national scene when he addressed the 2004 Democratic National Convention.
Political power is just as real as cigarette smoke in this country. The reconstruction era’s destruction of black political power is so evident even today and those influences have survived till this date. There is hope though because there are people who are silently waiting to do the right thing to make the quality of life better for everybody. Brother Patterson may be born blind but he may demonstate more vision than any of the governors my homestand has had. Our prayers are with him fo New York’s potentuial brighter future. Peace and soul.
How very unfortunate for the demise of Mr Spitzer, look what power did to his political character(and his family) Maybe now brotha Paterson will get the chance to let all of NY state see through his eyes hope he get’s the chance have “real vision” after all