NEW YORK (AP) -- New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer has resigned. He made the announcement in his Manhattan office.
Spitzer will be replaced by Lieutenant Governor David Paterson, who will become New York's first black governor.
As on Monday, when he made a public apology, his wife stood by his side.
Spitzer says the resignation will take effect on Monday.
Spitzer said he's "deeply sorry" that he didn't live up to what was expected of him. He said he "sincerely" apologizes to every New Yorker.
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, who is also chairman of the Democratic Governor's Association, released a statement Wednesday afternoon in his role as chairman.
“I commend Governor Spitzer’s decision to step down from office. He has achieved a number of important accomplishments as Governor of New York, and I wish him and his family the best as they continue to work through this private matter," Governor Joe Manchin said. “Lieutenant Governor David Paterson has a long and distinguished record of public service. He is the right person to lead New York at this critical time, and he has the full support of the Democratic Governors Association. We look forward to a successful transition, and we stand ready to assist him in any way.”