Weiner requests leave of absence to seek treatment

By DAVID ESPO, AP Special Correspondent

WASHINGTON (AP) - Rep. Anthony Weiner is asking for a temporary leave of absence from the House while he seeks professional treatment in the wake of his Twitter scandal.

A spokeswoman for the New York Democrat says he has left for professional treatment and will focus on "becoming a better husband and healthier person."

Spokeswoman Risa Heller says Weiner wants the leave of absence so he can be evaluated and work out a course of treatment.

The statement doesn't say what Weiner would be treated for.

Just before the statement, leading Democrats demanded that Weiner step down.

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