Union-Bulletin

Rep. Anthony Weiner's lousy judgment and sleazy behavior are certainly concerning.

On Monday, Weiner, D-N.Y., admitted sending a lewd photo of his underwear-clad private parts to a 21-year-old Seattle woman and other women over Twitter. He lied -- repeatedly -- to protect himself.

Weiner conceded to a "hugely regrettable" lapse in judgment, but insisted he had done nothing wrong. Weiner said he used his home computer and personal Blackberry, not government computers.

Nothing wrong? Weiner's actions were inappropriate and idiotic. That's wrong, especially for a member of Congress who should be held to a higher standard.

Nevertheless, it might well be that Weiner did not commit a crime nor violate the House ethics policies. After all, the outrageous conduct of some members of Congress have set the bar high -- or is that low? -- when it comes personal conduct.

However, the ultimate decision on whether Weiner stays in Congress -- assuming he has not violated the law or House rules -- is up to the voters of district.

But Weiner would be doing himself and his constituents a favor by resigning. His life under the public spotlight is going to be miserable. In addition, and more importantly, he won't be a particularly effective congressman with this embarrassing scandal trailing him.