I've always like Anthony Weiner, too, and I've wondered what's so wrong with him. He seems so forthright and honest about his positions on social issues, at least on the national stage, and seems to provide arguments that go beyond party politicking when it's appropriation, which this issue isn't a political one, as near as I can tell.

Maybe this is because I'm not a New Yorker, or whatever. I'm just a lonely grad student in a flyover state. Maybe you can being to understand the hate if you are a New Yorker; what say you city of lights, broken Broadway dreams, and subterfuge? Why should I dislike Weiner?

Although, if the hate directed toward Weiner is that he willingly turned down his party's position as Majority Whip or the chair of the DCCC (which I would be happier than a pig in shit if he was either), then I completely understand.

er, that should say 'appropriate', and not 'appropriation'

and 'begin' not 'being'...sorry, it's fucking cold in the coffee house, which distracts my ability to proofread my shit.

The problem stems as much from the calcified power of the various Democratic institutions (of which there are many -- unions, club, officially party committees and sub-committees across five boroughs). By the time any young Dem makes it to the stage, s/he's had to align with more than a handful of self-serving, corrupt assholes that stick like leeches to you throughout the campaign. Once in power, no one wants to address the problem head on. Plus, it's a lot easier to appear principled on the national stage because you are taking on a straw enemy (relative to NY). It's great to call Dick Cheney the devil, but when you have to hug Randi Weingarten and Michael Palladino the next day, it rings a little hollow to people who are serious about their local politics.

Meh. He wimped out on running for Mayor because he didn't think anyone could beat Bloomberg. I bet he kicks himself every morning.

Because New York will never, ever have a Mayor Weiner.*

*No one will ever say this out loud.