Reaction to allegations against Democratic New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer that he hired a prostitute:
"I obviously am sending my best wishes and thoughts to the governor and to his family. ... Let's wait and see what comes out of the next days. Right now I don't have any comment. I think it's appropriate to wish his family well and see how things develop.'' -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., and presidential contender endorsed by Spitzer.
"I never try to take advantage or gloat over a personal tragedy. However, this is different. This is a guy who is so self-righteous, and so unforgiving. ... He has to step down. No one will stand with him.'' -- Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y.
"It is an excruciating personal tragedy for the governor, his family, and the rest of our society to whom he has meant so much.'' -- Democratic former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo.
"I feel very badly for the governor's wife, for his children. The important thing for the people of New York state is that people in office do the right thing, because there are so many challenges out there and it's important that we govern, move forward to get a proper budget in place.'' -- State Senate Republican leader Joseph Bruno, whom Spitzer aides were accused of attempting to embarrass.
"For the good of his family, for the good of our state, for the good of the governorship, Eliot Spitzer must resign immediately. He is unfit to lead our state and unfit to hold public office.'' -- State Assembly Republican leader James Tedisco.
"I would tell him to resign. Don't prolong the anguish and the ridicule, for your family's sake. And certainly come clean and be completely honest.'' -- Dina Matos McGreevey, estranged wife of former New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey, a Democrat who resigned after acknowledging an affair with a male aide. The former governor declined to comment on the Spitzer scandal to The Associated Press.
"I feel bad for him and his family but until he makes a more complete statement, I have nothing more to say.'' -- Democratic Sen. Charles Schumer.
"These are serious and disturbing accusations that are completely at odds with the man I know. They come as a complete shock. ... He will have to regain credibility not only with his family but with the public.'' -- Democratic New Jersey Gov. Jon S. Corzine.
"It is hard to see how Gov. Spitzer can hope to govern effectively while the political, governmental and legal consequences of his behavior swirl about him. ... He should resign immediately, so New York's government can effectively return to serving its citizens.'' -- New York Republican Party Chairman Joseph Mondello.
"Gov. Spitzer is a dedicated public servant with a long record of bringing positive change to New York. This is not the time to play politics, particularly as investigations are ongoing. Until all the facts of this case are known, we should all exercise caution and restraint.'' -- Democratic Governors Association Executive Director Nathan Daschle.
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