Paterson seeks cooperation as he takes oath of office

New York Gov. David A. Paterson took the oath of office Monday, pledging to lead the state to more prosperous times.

Paterson succeeds former Gov. Eliot Spitzer, who resigned March 12 after being linked to a high-priced prostitution ring.

Paterson admitted the task facing elected officials in Albany is difficult.

"There's a budget that needs to be passed, and we will pass it. We need a plan to put New Yorkers back to work and we will provide it. We have to battle the obstacle of doubt and uncertainty and we shall overcome it," he said.

He also recognized the need for cooperation and called upon those serving in other branches of government to work with him.

"My colleagues, all of you in the Legislature, those who serve in the judiciary, state employees who work in our great agencies, isn't that what called us to work in government in the first place?

"Then let us seize that poignant moment. Let us right here and now, let us grab the unusual opportunities that circumstance has handed us today, and put personal politics, party advantage and power struggles aside in favor of service, in the interests of the people," he said.

"There's trust that needs to be restored. There are issues that need to be addressed. And all of us, as we set to us, must be aware of one truth that rise above all else," Paterson said.

"And so what we are going to do from now on is what we always should have done. We're going to work together."