Ex-Congressman Anthony Weiner Launches Campaign for NYC Council Following Sexting Controversy – One America News Network
OAN Staff James Meyers
2:58 PM – Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Former congressman Anthony Weiner has made a return to the political scene by declaring his candidacy for the New York City Council on Tuesday.
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Weiner gained notoriety due to a sexting scandal that led to his resignation from office over ten years ago after he was convicted for communicating inappropriately with a 15-year-old girl, resulting in prison time.
The 60-year-old is now dedicated to securing the Council District 2 seat in New York City, which encompasses various neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan.
He has arranged to speak at a forum hosted by the Downtown Independent Democrats on Thursday.
“[They] required that you have an open committee to participate in their candidate forum, so here I am,” he remarked.
Weiner established his political committee, Weiner 25, with the Campaign Finance Board last Friday and subsequently filed for the 2nd District position.
This seat is presently held by Carlina Rivera (D-N.Y.), who is term-limited and will vacate her position at the end of 2025. Several other candidates have also announced their interest, including Sarah Batchu, Harvey D. Epstein, Andrea Gordillo, Jason Murillo, and Allison Ryan.
At the time of his sexting conviction, Weiner was married to Huma Abedin, who served as an aide to Hillary Clinton during her presidential campaign against Donald Trump.
In 2017, Weiner pleaded guilty to one felony count of transferring obscene materials to a minor, serving 18 months in prison before his release in 2019.
In recent weeks, Weiner has hinted at his political comeback, expressing his desire to reconnect with New Yorkers.
“I enjoy my radio job, but I want to serve the community,” he stated on his weekly 77 WABC radio show last month.
Weiner refrained from discussing how he would address his troubled past during a potential campaign.
“Running for office is a privilege, and those who aim to represent this district must deeply understand the challenges our families face,” remarked Council member Rivera in a statement. “The democratic process is foundational to our society, and every voice is vital in our progression. I encourage my neighbors to fully engage in the primary process and make informed choices to help shape a brighter future.”
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