It's My Resignation and I'll Resign When I Want To

McGreevey, the New Jersey Governor, yesterday, admitted to having an extramarital gay affair and has decided to resign as governor of the state, according to the Washington Times this morning. Apparently the Governor has a lot more problems coming down the pike as well, which is probably more the reason for the resignation than just the affair.

The Democrat said his resignation would be effective Nov. 15, a move that avoids the risk of his party losing the seat in a special election.

Senate President Richard J. Codey, a Democrat, will become acting governor and serve out the remainder of Mr. McGreevey's term, which ends in early 2006.

Had Mr. McGreevey left office before Nov. 15, a special election would have to be called before New Jersey's regular 2005 election.

Former Republican Gov. Christie Whitman said Mr. McGreevey "made a courageous decision" but criticized his wait until Nov. 15, saying it "smacks of politics" and it "would be in the best interests of the state" if he left office immediately.

While it's perfectly legal to resign whenever he wants to resign, if he's going to do it, the sooner the better. It doesn't matter what party he were from, I think that playing politics with your resignation date is not looking out for the best interest of the people of your state. With all of the information on the scandal coming out, New Jersey's going to have a completely useless Governor for the next 4 months. If he would just resign and get it over with, the Lieutenant Governor could take his place until November 15 and get the business of the state done until a new Governor can be elected. The lieutenant Governor taking the place of the Governor is useful in the order of government, but whenever possible the person to take that office should be the person elected to it. It's not right to maneuver so that that doesn't take place.

Update: Captain's Quarters goes more in depth as to why McGreevey decided to resign.

Update: Powerline gives an opinion too.