Attorney says John Conyers' health 'not the best,' will make career decision in coming days

Attorney Arnold Reed provides update in front of Conyers' Detroit home

DETROIT – The attorney for Michigan Rep. John Conyers said the congressman's health is "not the best," and that they expect to make a decision on his career in the coming days.

Arnold Reed spoke in front of Conyers' Detroit home around 2:40 p.m. Friday.

"We will discuss, in the next day or so, what Mr. Conyers plans to do," Reed said. "As you know, his health is not the best. It is not what it should be. He has undergone a second round of examinations. I will meet and confer with doctors. It will be (Conyers who decides what he's going to do) in terms of representing the people."

Conyers is in the hospital due to stress, according to his staff. The longtime congressman is caught in a firestorm of controversy after being accused of sexual harassment by multiple former staff members.

Reed said an announcement will be made about whether Conyers will step aside or continue with his career, but he doesn't expect a decision to be made before Sunday.

"We're going to ensure that this is a fair process," Reed said. "We're going to make sure Congressman Conyers makes a decision that is not rushed, that is not hurried. Due process will be paramount."

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Top Democrats have called for Conyers' resignation, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. Some former staff members have come to his defense, however, saying they didn't notice any problems between Conyers and one of his accusers, Marion Brown.

Reed said pressure from Washington will not play a role in Conyers' career decision. He said it will be a decision based on his health.

"I spoke with the congressman a couple of days ago. I'm letting him rest," Reed said. "I would assume the congressman would consider whether he can still serve effectively. ... I believe he will do what is in the best interest of his constituents, like he has always done."


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