Gov. David Paterson just told the nation that New York needs a leader who can devote all his attention to running the state.
He's right.
That will be his job for the 308 days remaining to his term.
But what can be accomplished by an already weak governor who is now officially a lame duck working with a dysfunctional state Legislature.
Who's in charge?
Heaven help New York residents, taxpayers and businesses.
Meanwhile, it seems only fair to acknowledge that for all of Paterson's political faults and failures, he can point to substantive accomplishments over the last two years. He noted reducing $33 billion of state debt, many times more than normal; taking the unpopular action of delyaing payments to benefit the state's credit rating; eradicating the Rockefeller drug laws while toughening penalties against "drug kingpins," and enacting legislation to protect homebuyers and borrowers. And, he says, "I have never abused my office. Not now, not ever."
Paterson noted that he signed up for public service, but he's a realist about politics.