Zeldin Calls on Bishop To Condemn Spitzer's Conduct and Demand Resignation

MASTIC, NY (03/12/2008)(readMedia)-- Monday, I issued the toughest, swiftest statement to date condemning Governor Eliot Spitzer's involvement in an illicit prostitution ring. To allow New York State to move forward, I called for the governor's immediate resignation to alleviate the embarrassment his lacking morality and poor judgment has caused the Empire State.

As expected, my opponent has remained non-committal, again obediently toeing the party line instead of the line of independent thinking. This failure to respond with words of condemnation and a call for resignation is eerily reminiscent of his delayed period of inaction last fall after Governor Spitzer decided to give driver's licenses to illegal aliens.

The seriousness of accountability transcends party lines. Any elected official entrusted with holding public office who admits to or is found guilty of a crime must immediately step down out of respect for the privilege of their position. This includes men like Senators David Vitter(Democrat) and Larry Craig (Republican) as well as Representatives William Jefferson (Democrat) and John Doolittle (Republican).

New York does not need or deserve this black eye. Innuendo and insinuation are not hallmarks of strong leadership. Failing to take a firm stance is not on the table, Mr. Bishop.

Leaders lead. I again call my opponent to condemn Governor Spitzer's deplorable conduct and join me in demanding Governor Spitzer's resignation.

-30-

Paid for by Lee Zeldin for Congress