(NewsNation) — Former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner, who resigned from Congress in 2011 amid a sexting scandal, says the road to a political comeback is still open despite recent high-profile cases accusing elected leaders of wrongdoing.
Weiner, now a radio host, said Wednesday on NewsNation’s “Dan Abrams Live” that Americans value signs of repentance from politicians tarnished by scandal, and are still willing to give second chances.
“I think fundamentally still Americans are forgiving people,” Weiner said, though adding he doubts he will run for office again himself.
His comments came after convictions of former President Donald Trump on charges related to hush money payments and President Joe Biden’s son Hunter on gun charges. Separate trials are underway for Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez over bribery charges and Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar over allegations including money laundering.
Weiner said neither party has been consistent in calling for the resignation of their own accused members when it is politically inexpedient. He said ultimately, “let the legislative process and the political process decide who gets elected in and out and let the judicial process decide” who goes to jail.
While saying the path for political comebacks still exists, Weiner doubted that he would run for office again.
“I’m scratching the itch doing my radio show having conversations like this. I had my moment,” Weiner stated.
He seemed content with his past service as a U.S. representative, saying “I basically did the equivalent playing shortstop for the New York Yankees. I was a member of Congress, a middle-class guy with a job that was in the Constitution. I have no complaints. I’ve got many blessings in my present life.”
