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Politicians and elected officials from throughout Queens reacted to the news that New York State Governor Eliot Spitzer will resign, effective Monday, with sympathy for the embroiled politician’s family, and a back-to-the-business of government attitude after allegations surfaced that Spitzer was engaged in trysts with high-priced prostitutes during his time in office.

Councilman James Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) struck a familiar tone with his statement.

Gennaro said he feels badly such an incident had occurred, and expressed his confidence in former Lieutenant Governor David Paterson, who will be filling the Empire State’s executive position.

“Governor Spitzer’s resignation brings closure to a very brief but tragic moment in New York’s great history and my thoughts and prayers are with the Spitzer family,” he said. “We must now unite under the leadership of Governor David Paterson and make sure that the people’s business, like passing an equitable state budget next month, moves forward without delay.”

In conference call with reporters Assemblyman Rory Lancman (D-Queens) said, “The people’s business is all that matters, and I am committed to working with our new Governor to get the people’s business done. I have known Governor Paterson for many years, and I am completely confident in his ability to move our state forward and accomplish great things for all New Yorkers.”

He also added that he was saddened by the scandal and acknowledged the black-eye this will leave in state government for some time to come.

Lancman said he found the news “profoundly disappointing,” adding, “Spitzer came into office on a platform of reforming ethics.”

Referring to the effect the news will have on voters, Lancman said, “it has to erode confidence people have in government.”

As for the budget and other pending legislation, Lancman said New York State will not be derailed. He pledged to work with Governor David Paterson to “move our government forward, and to put aside partisanship and scandal so the people’s business gets done.”

Former Lieutenant Governor David Paterson stuck a similar tone, “Like all New Yorkers I am saddened by what we have learned over the past several days. On a personal level Governor Spitzer and [his wife] Silda have been close and steadfast friends. As an elected official the Governor has worked hard for the people of New York.

“My heart goes out to him and to his family at this difficult and painful time. I ask all New Yorkers to join Michelle and me in prayer for them. It is now time for Albany to get back to work as the people of this state expect from us.”