Paterson will take over as New York's first black governor on Monday, when Spitzer's resignation is effective. Spitzer, 48, resigned Wednesday, 48 hours after his name publicly was linked to a high-priced prostitution ring. Reports also surfaced about Spitzer allegedly engaging in irregular money transfers in his personal bank accounts.

"It is now time for Albany to get back to work as the people of this state expect from us," Paterson said in a statement.

"On a personal level, Gov. Spitzer and (his wife) Silda have been close and steadfast friends," Paterson said. "As an elected official, the governor has worked hard for the people of New York."

Paterson, 53, who is legally blind, is popular and respected in the statehouse, where he formerly was Senate minority leader. He is the son of longtime Harlem political leader Basil Paterson.

"He's an understated guy," former New York Mayor Ed Koch told CNN, which "would be very helpful" at this time."