The Governor painted a dark picture of New York under Democratic control, and asserted that Republican policies had turned things around.

Prosecutors said that under interrogation, the Governor and his wife each asserted that neither knew of the other's actions.

Like advocates for the poor, the Governor has asserted that providing child care is a crucial component of moving people from welfare into jobs.

But the Governor asserted, as he did Thursday night, that the election was not about ideological labels but about competence.

Mr. Levy's tactics, the Governor asserted, had also "killed" the Governor's proposed package of suburban highway improvements worth $700 million.

For his part, the Governor asserted that the United States had to exercise new leadership on human rights.

All the while, the Governor repeatedly asserted that he was not running for the White House.

More broadly, the Governor asserts that his position toward a race has not changed.

Besides, the Governor asserted, "The national policy debate - the decisions that are made here in Washington - have an enormous effect on New York."

On the charges, the Governor has repeatedly denied criminal intent, saying he was "completely clean," and asserted he would not resign.