Rep. Weiner to Seek Treatment, Leave of Absence From House

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By Chris Cillizza

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The top leaders in the Democratic Party called on embattled Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) to resign Saturday even as the scandal-tarred congressman announced he would seek a leave of absence from the House to seek treatment.

Weiner spokeswoman Risa Heller said Saturday afternoon that the congressman “departed this morning to seek professional treatment to focus on becoming a better husband and healthier person.” She added that he would request “a short leave of absence from the House,” after which he would make a decision on his political future. Heller did not return an email regarding what sort of treatment Weiner was seeking.

Weiner’s decision came just as the Democratic Party leadership issued a coordinated call for him to resign.

“Congressman Weiner has the love of his family, the confidence of his constituents and the recognition that he needs help,” said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (Calif.). “I urge Congressman Weiner to seek that help without the pressures of being a member of Congress.”

Read the rest of this story at the Washington Post.

In other news: Sasha Obama Celebrates her 10th birthday.

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