Watchdog group Common Cause calls on Paterson to resign, says he’s too distracted to govern

Common Cause calls on NY Gov. Paterson to quit

ALBANY, N.Y. — A group that promotes accountability in government and had supported New York Gov. David Paterson is now calling for his resignation.

Common Cause Executive Director Susan Lerner said Friday that Paterson is unable to fully focus on the state’s fiscal crisis because he’s ensnared in two scandals that threaten his job.

Lerner says that Paterson deserves due process but that the state budget and deficit require full attention.

Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is investigating whether Paterson illegally contacted a woman who had accused a top aide of domestic violence. The state’s ethics commission has charged Paterson with violating a gift ban.

A Paterson spokesman says the governor is working on budget issues despite the scandals. He met with legislative leaders this week.