Democratic Leader Calls Massa Claims "Absurd'

By WBNG News

Democratic Leader Calls Massa Claims "Absurd'

July 22, 2010 Updated Mar 9, 2010 at 3:22 PM EST

Washington, DC (WBNG Binghamton) The House's No. 2 Democrat is dismissing as "absurd" former Rep. Eric Massa's claims that he was forced out by party leaders because of his opposition to health care
legislation.

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., told reporters Tuesday
that Massa's conspiracy argument was "absolutely untrue."

The former New York lawmaker, who is facing a harassment
complaint from a male staffer, said Sunday that Democratic leaders
will "stop at nothing" to advance the health care bill. Massa
voted against the legislation last year.

Massa has given three explanations for leaving office. Last
week, he said he would not seek re-election because of health
problems.

Massa's departure reduces the majority House Speaker Nancy
Pelosi needs for passage of health care legislation to 216.

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