Massa Changes Mind--Resigning Monday

Meredith Jessup | March 05, 2010 5:20 PM

Rep. Eric Massa, the New York Democrat caught up in the midst of an ethics investigation for allegedly sexually harassing a male staff member, surprised everyone earlier this week when he announced he would not be seeking re-election and will not serve past his first term.

In another surprising announcement today, however, Massa said he's resigning from office on Monday. In a statement, Massa acknowledged the investigation, saying:

I own this reality. There is no doubt in my mind that I did in fact, use language in the privacy of my own home and in my inner office that, after 24 years in the Navy, might make a Chief Petty Officer feel uncomfortable. In fact, there is no doubt that this Ethics issue is my fault and mine alone.

Massa states that his reasons for leaving office, however, have to do with personal medical news and advice from doctors.

With Massa leaving on Monday, the number of Democrats needed to pass health care drops to 216. Last year, he was amont the 39 Democrats who voted against the House bill.