"Health concerns?" or Sex Scandal?

From Eric Dondero:

The official reason is "health concerns." But according to a source inside the beltway, the rumor is something more along the lines of a looming "ethical challenge." Some sources indicate that he may have used very inappropriate language, including "homophobic slurs," against a congressional staffer. Other sources suggested he "made unwanted sexual advances" towards a male staffer.

Irregardless, the sudden "retirement" announcement of first-term Democrat Congressman Eric Massa of New York, has given the Republicans yet another opportunity for a House seat pick-up.

Tom Reed has been the challenger to Massa in this GOP-leaning district. However, one of our sources indicates that another name is surfacing, who'd be an even stronger candidate to secure the seat in the Republican column; that of Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks.

So far, at least one media source in New York is confirming the rumors. From LoHud.com (Lower Hudson):

Republicans are eying Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks as a potential contender for the sprawling 29th District, which stretches from the Rochester suburbs to the Southern Tier.

She has resisted calls to run for the seat in the past, but said today in a statement that she is going to seriously consider it.

Brooks issues a statement:

"Since early this afternoon, I have received dozens of calls from my colleagues in Monroe County, across New York State, and in Washington who have asked me to run for Congress now that the 29th Congressional District will be an open seat.

Out of respect for our community leaders and a desire to serve hardworking and overburdened taxpayers, I will give this opportunity serious consideration over the next several days."

Brooks, a former TV anchorwoman, is best known for having led the charge against corruption in county government, including cases of fraud by county employees against local taxpayers.