In an interview with Fox News, New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer seemed to soften his previous statements about the insurance industry. Appearing on a program hosted by Neil Cavuto on February 15, Spitzer expressed confidence in the honesty of the vast majority of insurance brokers and agents. He also cautioned against making generalizations as a result of his investigations and said the insurance sector is “vitally important” to the economy.

“My overwhelming presumption and confidence is that the vast majority of insurance brokers and agents are honest, hardworking, good individuals,” said Spitzer. “I know, as every one of us does, many people who are in that profession, that they work hard. They work diligently. They look out for their clients. They do what is right.”

“Those whom we have been prosecuting clearly were not in that category,” Spitzer added. “But the last thing anybody should do is generalize or jump to conclusions about an entire group of people who are in a sector that is vitally important. The importance of the insurance sector to our economy can’t be overstated. And that is why we have to work so diligently to make sure that it is functioning properly and ethically.”

Full Transcript of Fox News Interview With Eliot Spitzer (2/15/05)

PIA National Encouraged By Spitzer Remarks on Contingent Commissions (1/31/05) 

What It Means to Agents:  Is Eliot Spitzer changing his tune, or perhaps singing in a different key? It’s too soon to tell. Stay tuned.

March 9, 2005