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In a statement posted on his website, Massa said: In the incredibly toxic atmosphere that is Washington D.C., with the destruction of our elected leaders having become a blood sport, especially in talk radio and on the Internet, there is also no doubt that an ethics investigation would tear my family and my staff apart..

Massa is the second Democratic congressman to be involved in a scandal. Charles Rangel was also forced to step down from a Congressional committee due to improper dealings including the reported accepting of gifts.

Another New York politician is under fire. Governor David Paterson is being scrutinized due to his own handling of a top aides domestic issue. Paterson allegedly called the victim of a domestic incident that involved a top aide. Patersons bid for election was scrapped just days after he announced publicly that he would seek election.

This blow to the Democrats leaves just Massas departure brings the number of Democrats to 253 represented in the U.S. House of Representatives. The balance of power still leans towards Democrats as there are 178 Republicans.

No further comment from Massa on his resignation has been received. No word on the replacement process has been issued

Source: Media Newswire