While speaking to reporters in Albany earlier this afternoon, Governor Paterson says he has become the victim of an unprecedented campaign of rumor and slander.

“The only way I’m not going to be Governor is at the ballot box, the only way I’m leaving office is in a box,” the governor said.

Amid a swirl of rumors of a possible resignation due to a forthcoming story in the New York Times, Paterson said he has no intention of leaving office.

The governor said he has met with Times reporters and the story being written contains none of the rumors about his personal life.

Paterson said he has been shocked by the amount of speculation in Albany over the story, which he says is nothing more than a distraction from the real issues.

“It seems to be somewhat orchestrated, and it is really a shame that this much energy has to be devoted to false allegations, unsubstantiated rumors, and in some cases straight out lies,” Paterson said.

Paterson said he is focused on the state’s mounting budget problems.

(Source: http://www.ny1.com/)