Congressman blames resignation on health care debate

ROCHESTER - Rep. Eric Massa (D-Corning) is blaming his resignation on what he called a conspiracy by House Democratic leaders to force him out before a crucial vote on health care, his third explanation for leaving office after he earlier cited health issues and an ethics investigation.

One of 39 Democrats who voted against an earlier House version of the health care bill in November, Massa said in his weekly radio address Sunday that Democratic leaders will "stop at nothing" to advance the health care overhaul.

"Mine is now the deciding vote on the health care bill," Massa said on WKPQ-FM in Hornell, a city in his western New York district. "And this administration and this House leadership have said . . . they will stop at nothing to pass this health care bill. "Now they've gotten rid of me and it will pass. You connect the dots."

Katie Grant, a spokeswoman for House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland, said Monday that Massa's accusation is "completely false." Massa didn't respond to phone calls for comment.

Facing a harassment complaint from a male staffer, Massa said Friday he would step down from his seat. His resignation took effect Monday. Days earlier, he had announced he wouldn't seek re-election because of health problems.- AP