Should Governor Paterson resign?


The news has been unfolding piece by piece on the latest scandal in the New York State Governor’s office.
Governor Paterson took over when Eliot Spitzer resigned after his own scandal, and now some are calling for his resignation as well.
While the investigation is still ongoing, it appears that Governor Paterson may have played a role in the cover up of domestic violence charges against his aide, David Johnson. Johnson is accused of abusing his girlfriend last Halloween. There are recordings from 911 conversations, in addition to testimony from her and her lawyer during her legal proceedings against Johnson.
Johnson has been fired without pay, and Paterson announced Friday that he has withdrawn his bid from the upcoming Governor’s race. An investigation has begun into the incident and what role Paterson’s administration may have had.
Governor Paterson has admitted that he called and spoke with his aides girlfriend, allegedly one day before she was to appear in court in the proceedings to press charges against Johnson. From the NY Times:

The lawyer, Lawrence B. Saftler, said that the conversation lasted about a minute and that the governor asked how she was doing and if there was anything he could do for her. “If you need me,” he said, according to Mr. Saftler, “I’m here for you.”


Paterson spoke yesterday in a press conference
, reiterating his decision to finish out his term in office. He also tried to distance himself from the investigation into his former aide’s conduct.
These allegations are extremely serious. Intimidating a survivor of domestic violence, attempting to interfere with legal proceedings, possibly in order to avoid political scandal or protect an employee.
Considering New York State’s recent history with domestic violence and those in government, this shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are others who believe that the State’s budget crisis is reason enough to keep Paterson in office, to avoid the chaos and insecurity that would come from transitioning leadership.
If these allegations turn out to be true, then I would see Paterson having no choice but to step down. The question is how long will the investigation take before we can confirm Paterson’s exact involvement.
In a strange twist of irony, Gov. Paterson’s wife is actually a domestic violence counselor.

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