Conyers Hospitalized and Pérez, Clyburn, and Richmond Stay Mum on Next Steps

Just this morning, it's being reported that Congressman John Conyers (D-MI) has been hospitalized due to stress-related ailments. Family spokesperson Sam Riddle confirmed Thursday morning that the 88-year-old is seeking treatment at a local hospital. He declined to detail exactly what Conyers is suffering from. “Monica Conyers, Mrs. Conyers, is by his side and we just ask, really the nation, to pray for this Congressman that has done so much for the nation,” Riddle said. The news comes as Dem colleagues have stayed mum on Conyers' future. DNC Chair Tom Pérez, during a radio interview on Wednesday, would not say if he thinks Conyers should resign over allegations of sexual harassment. On Wednesday, reporters cornered Congressional Black Caucus Chair Cedric Richmond (D-LA) and Assistant Minority Leader Congressman Jim Clyburn (D-SC) on Capitol Hill and questioned the pair about Conyers, making the comparison to other public figures who have been recently accused of sexual misconduct and have promptly been fired or otherwise removed from their positions. Richmond replied that he would need to hear examples. Reporters offered the names of Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein and TV anchors Charlie Rose and Matt Lauer. Clyburn replied, "Who elected them?" Conyers' attorney Arnold Reed tells AP that the congressmen is innocent and has no plans to resign. "He’s going to fight these allegations tooth and nail if he has to with evidence, with documentation, witnesses, whatever he has to do and the accusers will have to prove up their case."  More here.