
North country Democrats expressed similar shock at allegations that Mr. Spitzer had made arrangements for prostitution services during a Washington, D.C., trip on Feb. 13. The accusation was contained within an affidavit filed in federal court in relation to the arrest of four people Thursday on charges of running an online prostitution ring known as Emperor's Club VIP.
"I'm flabbergasted and deeply disappointed that a man with his stature, an attorney general and a governor elected by a landslide, would involve himself in something like that," said Ernest J. LaBaff, Potsdam, president emeritus of the Aluminum, Brick and Glass Workers International Union.
"Certainly he's always, in my mind, appeared to be a family man. That's what made it more shocking," said Jefferson County Legislator Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa. "It's sad for all of us. When you have your governor implicated in all of this, I don't think anyone is reveling in the idea that we're going to have our governor resign."
Frederick J. Carter, president of Teamsters Local 687, Potsdam, said he was "terribly sick" upon hearing the news.
"I feel bad for the people of the state of New York that put their trust in Gov. Spitzer," said Mr. Carter, Ogdensburg. "If it's true, he should probably resign."
Legislator James D. St. Croix, D-Watertown, said he was not only disappointed in Mr. Spitzer, but also "for our party, which looked like it was going to make a terrific comeback. It's a disaster."
Mrs. Russell said the allegation "distracts from the good work and all the good things that all Democrats across the state have accomplished."
"I think there is a sense of purity of purpose that's been sullied," added Ezra S. "Ted" Ford, a former Jefferson County Democratic chairman.
Mr. Ford, LaFargeville, authors the politically-orientated "Danger Democrat" blog. A post about the allegations elicited 25 comments in its first three hours.
"The sense is people are very disappointed from our party," he said. "The people who sympathize with the other side are close to elated."
Party faithful do not believe Mr. Spitzer's actions will tarnish other prominent Democrats such as June F. O'Neill, Morley, who is state Democratic Party chairwoman and Sen. Darrel J. Aubertine, Cape Vincent.
"Policy is one thing, but the lifestyle choices that one person makes you can't tie to another person," said Mrs. Russell.
"This is an individual action that doesn't involve anyone except the perp and the other person," added Mr. Ford. "I don't see any ripple effect."
Mr. Wells said the allegations will elicit strong reactions from voters, especially since Mr. Spitzer promised to "clean up" Albany when he ran for governor in 2006.
"There are some people in political offices that we don't expect high conduct from and then there are others who set a very high standard," he said. "What happens when they go astray is really terrible. I wish it never happened and I'm sure he wishes it never happened."
(watertowndailytimes.com)