WASHINGTON–Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) is sending himself into treatment, making the announcement on Saturday as House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Democratic National Committee Chairman Debbie Wasserman Schultz called for his resignation.
Weiner is resisting stepping down as a result of his sexting scandal–sending lewd photos of himself to woman and then lying about it.
Pelosi said in a statement, Congressman Weiner has the love of his family, the confidence of his constituents, and the recognition that he needs help. I urge Congressman Weiner
to seek that help without the pressures of being a Member of Congress.”
Pelosi is not letting Weiner off the hook with his treatment decision–where he will ask the House to grant him a leave of absence.
A Pelosi aide said Saturday afternoon, “At the time of her statement this afternoon, Leader Pelosi was already aware of Congressman Weiner’s intention to take a leave of absence in order to seek treatment.
Said Wasserman Schultz in a statement released Saturday: “It is with great disappointment that I call on Representative Anthony Weiner to resign. The behavior he has exhibited is indefensible and Representative Weiner’s continued service in Congress is untenable. This sordid affair has become an unacceptable distraction for Representative Weiner, his family, his constituents and the House – and for the good of all, he should step aside and address those things that should be most important – his and his family’s well-being.”
