When Lt. Gov. David Paterson takes over as governor of New York Monday, many hope he will usher in a new era and a new tone for Albany politics.

Paterson, raised on Long Island, will become the first black governor of New York. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have praised him for his conciliatory style, unlike Spitzer who was often seen as abrasive.

"I look forward to a positive, productive relationship as soon as possible,? Republican State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno says. Spitzer?s first year in office was marked by clashes with Bruno. He will become next in line to succeed the governor, according to the state constitution.

New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver echoed the need for cooperation and cited Paterson?s qualifications. "David Paterson's intellect, charisma, experience in government make him an ideal leader to guide us through the difficult days ahead,? Silver says.

Long Island residents say they hope more business will get done under the new administration. Specifically, they say they want to see tax relief. Lawrence Levy, executive director of the National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University, says Paterson has a better chance of accomplishing that than Spitzer did.

AP wire reports contributed to this article.