Paterson puts end to future term

Governor David Paterson announced his decision to abandon his re-election term on Friday, Feb. 26 amid heavy criticism from the Democratic party and intense speculation surrounding his involvement in a domestic violence case against one of his top aides.

"There are times in politics when you have to know not to strive for service, but to step back — and that moment has come for me," stated Paterson in his afternoon press conference, reported in the New York Daily News.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Paterson will stay in office until the official end date, Jan. 1 of next year, of his term and pledged to continue working on the state's problems.

With recently proposed budget cuts for health and education, Paterson will also deal with criticism concerning his involved scandal with a top aide, David W. Johnson.

The New York Times also reported that according to one spokesperson, Paterson has denied any wrongdoing and claims that the call took place the day before the schedule court hearing and that the woman initiated it. Paterson refused to elaborate further on the details.

"I give you this personal oath. I have never abused my office. Not now not ever. And I believe that when the facts are reviewed, the truth with prevail," declared Paterson as he raised his right hand, in a piece by the Daily News.

The New York Post reported that before his announcement, Paterson reminded the public of his achievements over the last two years. He takes responsibility for building the foundation of the state's fiscal and economic rescue, while eliminating the harsh Rockefeller drug laws, and proposing legislation to improve the lives of his constituents.

Bloomberg's Business Week published the results of a poll conducted by the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, which showed that most New York voters do not want Paterson to resign, however, they doubt his ability to lead effectively.

As Paterson's term draws to a close, New York Magazine considers Cuomo to be his likely successor as the Democratic nominee for governor.

According to New York Magazine, Cuomo stated, "[The situation] gives him an opportunity to establish himself as the party's leader and develop a consensus for the way things need to go, for making changes in the way Albany does business."