While calling the drama surrounding Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., a "distraction" on Monday, the White House did not specifically call on the congressman to resign.
"The president feels, we feel at the White House, this is a distraction. As Congressman Weiner has said himself, his behavior was inappropriate, dishonesty was inappropriate,” White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to North Carolina. “But the president is focused on his job, which is getting this economy continuing to grow, creating jobs, and ensuring the safety and security of the American people."
When asked if Weiner should resign, Carney refused to comment beyond reiterating that his behavior was “a distraction” from the work Obama and Congress need to do.
Over the weekend, a trio of top Democratic lawmakers—including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Steve Israel, and Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz—called on Weiner to resign. Carney said he was not aware of top Obama aides being involved in those requests.
This is the first White House comment on the scandal.
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