The TicketAnthony Weiner’s not done yet
It's a general rule that public figures, after undergoing a national scandal that strips them of power, should probably lay low for a while. But, as we know by now, Anthony Weiner doesn't always act in his best interest.
The disgraced former New York Democratic representative, who resigned from Congress this month after sending a picture of himself in his underwear to a college student, has asked to be involved in selecting his successor, The New York Post reports.
"Congressman Anthony Weiner is trying to insert himself back into politics -- calling power brokers and would-be candidates for his old seat, hoping they'll let him play a role in choosing his own successor, The Post has learned. ...One Democratic insider confirmed that Weiner has spoken to the Queens party chairman, Rep. Joe Crowley, about whom the Dems should pick."
The reason Weiner continues to play a role, sources in the Post story say, is to ensure the district remains in the hands of a Democrat who can win the seat. The last thing Weiner wants is to add another lost seat for the party to the repercussions of his fall from power.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has yet to announce the date of a special election to fill Weiner's seat, but candidates from both parties are already hinting at making a run.
From the Post:
"At least half a dozen Queens Democrats are lining up for the job, including City Councilman Mark Weprin; his brother, state Assemblyman David Weprin; Councilwoman and Crowley's cousin Elizabeth Crowley; former Council Members Eric Gioia and Melinda Katz; and Assemblyman Rory Lancman."
While the seat is expected to stay with the Democrats, the district could fall prey to redistricting next year when the state reshuffles based on new census numbers.
