Congressman Weiner seeks treatment after sex scandal
WASHINGTON |
(Reuters) - Democratic Representative Anthony Weiner, under pressure to resign after being snared in an online sex scandal, is seeking professional treatment and requesting a leave of absence from the House of Representatives, an aide said on Saturday.
Weiner's office announced the development shortly after top House Democrats publicly called on the 46-year-old lawmaker to step down.
In a brief statement, the congressman's spokesperson, Risa Heller, indicated that Weiner would remain in office at least until he receives unspecified professional help.
"Congressman Weiner departed this morning to seek professional treatment to focus on becoming a better husband and healthier person," Heller said in the statement.
"In light of that, he will request a short leave of absence from the House of Representatives so that he can get evaluated and map out a course of treatment to make himself well."
