David Paterson Sworn In As NY Governor
By: Import User
Updated: March 18, 2008
(Albany, NY) -- David Paterson has been sworn in as New York's Governor. The former second in command is the first African American to ever govern the Empire State.
He takes over for disgraced former Governor Eliot Spitzer who stepped down last week after being linked to a prostitution ring.
Paterson, who is legally blind and doesn't read Braille, memorized the entire inaugural address. During his inaugural address, the state's 55th governor and former Harlem State Senator acknowledged the Spitzer scandal and how it led to his rise from lieutenant governor to governor. He also talked about offering a "healing tone" and encouraged lawmakers in the capital city of Albany need to work together to make it through the tough economic times ahead.
He said the state is moving forward from the Spitzer scandal and said today sends a "historic message" to the world that we are a, quote, "government of laws and not of individuals."
Paterson thanked numerous officials for taking part in today's ceremony and made a joke about smashing a glass with a gavel during a previous visit to the state capital.
News 8 will have complete coverage throughout the day. News 8's Matt Molloy and Evan Axelbank are in Albany today. They will have LIVE reports with local leaders at 5:00 and 6:00 pm.
(Copyright 2008 by Newsroom Solutions)
