By Mark Scott
Albany, NY – Another top official of the Paterson administration has resigned. Peter Kauffmann, the Governor's top communication officer, is leaving his post. In a statement to reporters, Kauffmann said in "good conscience," he cannot continue in his current position.
"As a former officer in the United States Navy, integrity and commitment to public service are values I take seriously," Kauffmann said.
Governor David Paterson is engulfed in turmoil from two scandals, the latest his apparent acceptance of free Yankees tickets. Some African-American leaders, led by the Reverend Al Sharpton, are said to be reconsidering their support of New York's first Black governor.
State Senate Democratic Leader John Sampson said he is advising Sharpton and the others to back off from asking Paterson to immediately resign.