They say “politics is Hollywood for ugly people,” and few have proven that maxim truer than Rep. Anthony Weiner.
Weiner wasn’t just a bad boy who happened to be a politician. It was Weiner’s job that made him attractive to women. And it was his professional status that facilitated the relationships. Some men attract superficial members of the opposite sex by driving fancy cars, making a lot of money, or by being super fit. But it was Weiner’s status as a political rock star that made him sexy. As Henry Kissinger said, “Power is the ultimate aphrodisiac.”
Just read the direct messages and it is obvious that the conversations often started when women were impressed by his political prowess. One woman, for example, “liked” one of his videos on Facebook and added the word “hot.” Another (who had previously corresponded with Weiner) wrote, “i need to see you mr. congressman. please don’t disappoint me!”
Weiner, of course, pursued these relationships. Being a Congressman is stressful, and it probably helps to get the occasional ego boost. But the bottom line is that it was what he did — not who he is — that earned him the praise and attention of these women.
This is a clue, by the way, why Weiner cannot — will not — resign. Being a political rock star isn’t what he does for a job — it’s who he is. It is his identity. It the only reason people like him, pay attention to him…adore him. It defines him.
Maybe therapy isn’t a bad idea?