On March 12, Eliot Spitzer resigned, saying, "In the past few days I've begun to atone for my private failings," adding, "from those to who much is given, much is expected." He continued, "I sincerely apologize . . . I cannot allow my private failings to disrupt the public's work," concluding, "I am resigning the office of governor . . . effective Monday, March 17. . . thank the public once again for the privilege of service."