Paterson ends election campaign

Is today’s announcement the end of the Gov. David Paterson saga?

Something tells me his decision to end his election campaign marks only the beginning of what could prove a long and painful ordeal for the Empire State. State Sen. Bill Perkins [D-Harlem,] a long-time Paterson ally, told WNYC’s Brian Lehrer earlier this morning he feels the governor will eventually step-down.

“It’s time for honestly and I believe that David Paterson knows better than anyone else how this investigation will end,” he said. “He knows what’s being investigated and he knows what’s at stake. He knows what he did, who he talked to. He knows under whose order the state troopers contacted this woman. If the investigation turns out the way many expect, his resignation is almost inevitable.”

Ironically, Paterson became governor nearly two years ago after his predecessor resigned amid a prostitution scandal. The fact he has been able to overcome numerous personal obstacles in his life remains an inspiration to an untold number of New Yorkers. The allegations that continue to swirl around Paterson, however, provide yet another reminder New York State government remains seriously broken.

Paterson stressed he plans to serve out the rest of his term—308 days. Events, however, may certainly dictate a far different outcome.