Former Congressman Anthony Weiner, a Democrat whose career was derailed by sexting scandals, is contemplating a return to politics by running for New York City Council. Weiner, who resigned from Congress in 2011, recently filed paperwork to establish a campaign committee called "Weiner 25" for a potential council seat in Lower Manhattan. He previously served on the council in the 1990s, representing Brooklyn districts.
While Weiner confirmed his exploration of a run, he stated in a conversation with The Associated Press that he has not made a final decision. He explained that the committee filing allowed him to participate in a forum hosted by the Downtown Independent Democrats. On his radio show, he acknowledged considering the personal implications of a political comeback. Weiner has indicated that constituents have encouraged him to seek office again, citing his experience and their shared Democratic values.
He has expressed his vision for the city, emphasizing the need for improvement in areas like homelessness and retail security. He attributed part of the homelessness issue to the "Callahan Decree," a legal decision mandating right-to-shelter for homeless men. Weiner's political history includes a close relationship with Senator Chuck Schumer, whose former House seat he filled in 1999. His career trajectory was interrupted by the 2011 sexting scandal and subsequent revelations, including a 2013 mayoral run hampered by further scandals and the use of the pseudonym "Carlos Danger."
In 2016, another sexting scandal emerged, leading to his separation from wife Huma Abedin. This incident involved a photo with his young son and communication with a minor, resulting in his laptop being seized. The investigation uncovered emails relevant to Hillary Clinton's classified documents controversy. Weiner sought treatment for sex addiction and was sentenced to 21 months in prison in 2017, effectively ending his mayoral bid. He was released in 2019 and is a registered sex offender.
