It’s official: Paterson quits campaign

Just a few moments ago, Governor David Paterson officially abandoned his quest for a full term leading New York state.

His wife stood silently at his side. Paterson never addressed the specific allegations that have shredded his political career in the last forty-eight hours.

But raising his right hand, he swore an informal oath that he had never abused the powers of his office.

The New York Times has reported that Paterson intervened in a domestic violence case involving a member of his staff.

Paterson says he will stay on until a new governor is elected in November and sworn in in January.

It’s unclear whether he’ll have the political support to hold onto office, or govern effectively.

The state faces a massive $8.2 billion dollar budget deficit.

During a brief press conference in Manhattan, Paterson declined to endorse Andrew Cuomo, the state’s Attorney General and the likely Democratic frontrunner.

He also laid claim to a legacy that includes ending the Rockefeller drug laws, improving minority and women’s hiring in state contracts, and cutting the state’s deficits.

Today’s drama highlighted a growing vacuum in Albany, with a wounded, lame-duck governor, and a Democratic Senate majority that has been unable to form a stable caucus.

Leaders in the black community are expected to meet in Harlem over the weekend. Their support could be key to Paterson’s final ten months in office.

Tags: election10