Eliot Spitzer Considers Himself A Feminist (VIDEO)

In spite of his past indiscretions, disgraced ex-New York Governor Eliot Spitzer says he's a feminist.

Spitzer, who resigned from office in 2008 over a prostitution scandal, told MSNBC host Chris Hayes on Tuesday that he believes his overall record shows a dedication to women's rights.

Hayes asked Spitzer whether he considers himself a feminist.

"Yes," Spitzer replied without hesitation. "I think, look, I hate to hide behind the line, 'Life is complicated.' But what I've said to the voters is look at the totality of my record. The record I had was one of devout dedication to women's rights on the issues of choice, on the issues of equal pay, on the issues of anti-discrimination."

Spitzer also touted his work against human trafficking.

"Both as attorney general where we were fervent in pursuing those cases, where we were fervent when I was governor in seeking legislation -- we passed and got passed an anti-human trafficking law."

Spitzer announced his plans to run for New York City comptroller on July 7, his first foray back into politics since his resignation. In the past two weeks, he's embarked on a media tour to address his tarnished reputation.

Spitzer said on the "Charlie Rose" show last week that he believes the sex industry is exploitative, but that he suffered from a lack of self-control.

Mika Brzezinski asked Spitzer on "Morning Joe" how he's changed over the past five years. In response, he said in a strained voice that he went through "a lot of pain" and that has made him change.

Watch the clip above.