And A Massa Mom's Barbecue

So not only is Dem Rep. Eric Massa of New York not running for re-election, he's flat out resigning Monday based on the other shoe dropping on that sexual harassment claim.  That's bad news for health care reform:

In a statement posted to his official website this afternoon, Massa acknowledged that his departure date is being moved up in part to avoid an Ethics Committee investigation that might "tear my family and my staff apart." While his statement does not point to any specific areas of wrongdoing, the congressman concedes that he used language that might have made others "uncomfortable." Massa's statement also admits that his "language failed to meet the standards that I set for all around me and myself."

Announcing his resignation, effective 5 p.m. (ET) on Monday, the New York lawmaker added that he steps down "with a profound sense of failure and a deep apology" to his constituents.

As this relates to health care reform, Massa's resignation will drop the necessary number of votes to pass the legislation in the House back down to 216. Massa, a supporter of single-payer health care, voted against the Democratic proposal in November, but was considered a possible swing vote on the final package.

Now, if having a foul mouth is worth an ethics investigation, half of Congress would be gone.   On the other hand, a male Representative accused of harassment by a male staffer is pretty serious (as any harassment claim should be).

Still, Massa's completely calling it quits.  Even Mark Foley stuck around longer than this.  There's more to this story.  A lot more.