Despite Resignation, Many Constituents Still Believe In Weiner

Anthony Weiner’s constituents experienced a range of emotions on Thursday afternoon when the seven-term Congressman announced his resignation. Weiner had been at the center of a scandal in which he sent lewd photos and messages to six different women for more than three weeks.

Stephanie Stone, 90, of Sheepshead Bay, attended the press conference at which Weiner told his constituents he was finished. She was crestfallen that he decided to call it quits.

“All the work he’s done in the district, it’s 99 percent positive,” Stone said. “It’s a very sad day for the people of Brooklyn and the people of New York.”

Ed Corrado, 70, also attended the press conference. He has been a Weiner supporter since the Congressman’s first term in the New York City Council. Corrado said he identified strongly with Weiner because of his reputation as a middle-class fighter, something Weiner alluded to in his farewell to constituents.

“I think he did the right thing to admit he has a problem,” Corrado said. “I think he would have been a great mayor. I had a hard time not choking up.”

Corrado was also upset at the antics of one heckler in the crowd, who had to be removed by police.

“[Weiner] is a man, he’s human, and he tried to resign with dignity.”

His contemporaries were quick to give credit to Weiner, as well.

“I'm sorry it’s come to this, but I think it's best for both him and his family and for the Congress.  I'm most concerned about his health and I'm glad he's seeking treatment," said U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney. “While the disclosures of his behavior have been incredibly disappointing, I'm going to choose to remember all the good things he's done for his district and our city.”

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand echoed the sentiment.

“It has become clear this is the right decision for Anthony, his family and his constituents," Gillibrand said. "My office will work to ensure the needs of all the constituents of the 9th Congressional District are fully served in Washington.”

Constituents in Forest Hills were not taken by surprise, given the chorus of nationwide and local leaders who have called for Weiner’s resignation.

Though many still stand by a man who worked to establish reputation as a fighter for Sept. 11 first responders.

“I think he should have stood in there and fought it,” said resident Kenny Roach.

Some still think he has a chance to achieve his ultimate goal, to be mayor of New York City.

“I think if he gave himself a couple of years, rebuilt his image, he [could] run for mayor,” said Vijal Parikh.

For 90-year-old Stone, that hope springs eternal: “He really was a wonderful representative,” she said. “I hope he can come back and maybe run again.”

Additional reporting by Nathan Duke.