Weiner launches long-shot mayoral bid
In running for mayor, Anthony Weiner is seeking to get past the tawdry-tweeter punch line that has dogged him since his congressional career imploded two years ago. And while he’s facing an uphill sprint, his campaign could help his long-term prospects even if he loses, some experts say.
Weiner’s mayoral bid, officially announced late Tuesday, offers a chance for him to update the public’s perception of him from scandal-lashed politician to candidate who’s talking ideas.
“I made some big mistakes, and I know I let a lot of people down, but I also learned some tough lessons,” he said in a video posted online. “I’m running for mayor because I’ve been fighting for the middle class and those struggling to make it my entire life. And I hope I get a second chance.”
With that, Weiner embarked on an audacious comeback quest, hoping to go from politician whose tweeted crotch shot was emblazoned on the nation’s consciousness to leader of America’s biggest city.