Eric Massa Will Step Down Monday

Rep. Eric Massa, who had already said he wouldn't run for re-election, will leave office on Monday. The first-term New York Democrat said a recurrence of cancer played a role in his decision, but also admitted a sexual harassment complaint a male staff member filed with the Ethics Committee had merit—because of his "improper language," he told the hometown Corning Leader. "I can't blame anyone but myself."

"I can't subject my family and staff to a full investigation," Massa continued. "It would tear us apart. It's not that I can fight or beat these allegations, I'm guilty." Massa said Wednesday he would not seek a second term. Whether his conduct went beyond "improper language" is not clear. Politico reported he had made unwanted advances to a junior aide in his office, which the Ethics Committee has neither confirmed nor denied.
(More Eric Massa stories.)