Paterson sworn in as Spitzer successor in New York

GOVERNOR Eliot Spitzer’s resignation became official yesterday, paving the way for Lieutenant Governor David Paterson to take the oath of office and become New York’s chief executive.

Spitzer’s term, cut short after allegations surfaced that he hired a call girl from a high-priced escort service, officially ended at noon yesterday.

He resigned last week, a stunning fall from power for the crusader who vowed to rid the state capitol of corruption.