Tough Times for Anthony Weiner By Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
Yet another private scandal has compromised a Democratic member of Congress, throwing him in the spotlight of shame.
Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., confessed earlier this week to exchanging sexually suggestive and somewhat explicit photos online as well as inappropriate conversations with several women. This includes private messages on Twitter with a 17-year-old Delaware girl.
Weiner has an extensive political history and has held office since 1999. He was the youngest person to serve on the New York City Council from 1992-1998. He tackled quality of life concerns during his tenure. He is known for being forceful, intense and demanding. His staff endures long hours which in turn has created one of the highest turnover rates for any member of Congress.
Tied to the fashion world, in June of 2008, Weiner sponsored a bill to increase the number of O-visas available to foreign models. Weiner argued that increasing the number of visas would help to boost the fashion industry in New York City.
Weiner is married to Huma Abedin, a longtime personal aide to Hillary Clinton. Huma has not commented publicly on her husband’s disgraceful behavior. She is traveling with Clinton in Africa until the middle of next week. She is pregnant with the couple’s first child. It has been rumored that she is supporting her husband.
Weiner has admitted to being involved in ‘six inappropriate relationships over the past three years’ using Twitter and other social media.
House Minority Leader, Nancy Pelosi, has requested an investigation by the House Ethics Committee to determine if any official resources were used or if there was a violation of House rules. Many of his fellow congress members are demanding his resignation.
However, at this point in time, Weiner is simply requesting a leave of absence from the House in order to seek treatment. He will begin professional counseling so that he may become a better husband and a better, healthier person. He respects his colleagues’ views but he feels this is the best course of action at this time.
Unfortunately, it is the overwhelming belief that his inappropriate exchanges with women have become a distraction for the Democratic party. He must take accountability for his actions. Coming clean with the American public, confronting it head on as well as obtaining professional help are all first steps to moving forward with rehabilitation and recognition of the problem at hand.
We will see what happens to Anthony Weiner in the coming months. He is yet another political victim of his own demise.
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