New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer, originally uploaded by Rob Bluey.

New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer is mockingly called “the smartest man in the world” by Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.). On this day, however, the smart guy turned out to be an ordinary John (quite literally). The cocky and arrogant governor who made ethics reform the hallmark issue of his administration saw his promising political career come to a painful end when he was tied to a $5,000-per-hour prostitution ring.

Spitzer’s illegal behavior will almost certainly end his short tenure as governor and strip liberals of a hero who they’ve been grooming for a presidential run in 2012 or 2016. There’s no reason to celebrate Spitzer’s downfall; my heart goes out to his wife and three daughters. This scandal further taints politicians who have betrayed the public’s trust, most recently Sens. David Vitter (R-La.) and Larry Craig (R-Idaho).

I’m saddened and disappointed Spitzer didn’t tender his resignation today. Although he said “I do not believe that politics in the long run is about individuals,” his actions today didn’t reflect that statement. The good people of New York deserved better. If Spitzer meant what he said about the “public good,” then he’ll leave office immediately.