In the face of mounting evidence – including an investigation of his Twitter platform and the discovery of another inappropriate photo – New York Congressman Anthony Weiner held a press conference today and admitted:
I lied. I did send lewd photos to multiple women online.
The scandal first erupted at the end of May, as a picture of Weiner’s covered crotch was found online, purported to be Tweeted to a 21-year old follower. Weiner immediately hired a lawyer, but also gave interviews in which he blamed the incident on a “prank.”
But that defense became more untenable in the following days, resulting in today’s admission.
During the press conference, Weiner said:
- He never met any of the women in question. He’s exchanged sexually explicit photos with “at least six women.”
- He dodged a question about whether or not he had “phone sex” with them and simply said they were adults and all actions were “consensual.”
- He told his wife the truth this morning and she was “very disappointed.” She also said she loved him and wanted the couple to “pull through.”
- He never asked anyone to lie or orchestrated any kind of cover-up. His staff was unaware of his actions.
- He labeled his actions “a personal failure” and said “I did a regrettable thing and for that I apologize.”
- He will not resign.
You can watch the press conference below:
We’ll have more on this story as news breaks. For now, you tell us: Should Weiner resign?