In a surprise announcement this afternoon, Upstate New York Congress member Eric Massa said he will not seek re-election.

And shortly afterward, Monroe County Executive said she might run for the seat.

Massa told a media conference call that he is backing out due to health reasons. Politico reported earlier today that there have been allegations that Massa sexually harassed a male staff member. But Massa strongly denied it in the conference call, saying he had had a health-care scare in December. He admitted to using salty language when he got angry and apologized for saying things that might have been inappropriate. He said blog articles about the allegation are "what's wrong with this city."

"I'm a very direct guy," he told reporters, "and I run at about 100 miles an hour, and my doctors have made it clear I can no longer do that."

Brooks, who had already endorsed the candidacy of Republican Tom Reed, issued a press release this afternoon saying this:

"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. Ultimately, I will make a decision that allows me to best serve the people of Monroe County and Upstate New York by fighting for lower taxes, job creation, public safety, and a quality of life that is second to none."

Another name's that sure to pop up as a potential candidate, at least in Monroe County, is Sandra Frankel, the Democratic supervisor of Brighton. When reached by phone she said she just learned of Massa's announcement and will have to look at the issue and make a decision. Several people had already asked her if she's considering a run, she said.

Another potential Democratic candidate is Hornell Mayor Shawn Hogan, who's also chair of the Steuben County Democratic Committee, reports the Buffalo News. Hogan is giving "serious consideration" to a run, says the News.