New York State Capitol in Albany.

A news story alleging Eric Schneiderman, New York's attorney general, choked and slapped women he was involved in relationships with was posted shortly before 7 p.m. Monday. Less than three hours later, after a flurry of calls for his resignation, Schneiderman did just that, effective end of business on Tuesday.

Schneiderman's departure now creates a vacuum in the state's highest law enforcement office—an issue that immediately falls to the legislature.

Article V of the state constitution at least makes the people responsible for that decision clear: “The legislature shall provide for filling vacancies in the office of comptroller and of attorney-general.”