State Republicans, not surprisingly, are criticizing the end of an unpaid suspension for Darren Dopp, Gov. Eliot Spitzer's communications director who is accused of plotting to discredit Senate Republican Majority Leader Joe Bruno.

We don't know enough at this point to say whether Dopp committed any crimes or serious ethical violations, but it's for that very reason that Spitzer moved too quickly in bringing Dopp back on board.

Dopp and Spitzer aide William Howard tracked Bruno's use of state aircraft in an apparent effort to show that Bruno often traveled under the guise of state business to attend political fundraisers.

An investigation by Attorney General Andrew Cuomo's office found that no laws were broken but concluded that policies were broken for political gain. Investigations by two other bodies are under way.

Dopp was suspended without pay and Howard was demoted and had his salary reduced.

The news this week that Spitzer was bringing Dopp back was met with strong words.

Republican State Committee Director of Communications Matthew Walter called returning Dopp to the payroll an “... arrogant insult to the people of this state.” Albany County Republican Chairman Peter Kermani said “... people's faith in the Spitzer administration has been shaken.”

Whether it's true or not that the scandal and its aftermath have shaken the public's faith, Spitzer must know that he's under a microscope right now, and that any move he makes is going to be scrutinized.

He should have kept Dopp off the payroll until the completion of investigations being conducted by the state Ethics Commission and the Albany County District Attorney's Office. At that point, appropriate action could be taken after all the facts have been gathered.