US congresswoman accused of same-sex relationship with staffer resigns

Katie Hill however denies having another sexual relationship with a member of her congressional staff

WASHINGTON: Democratic congresswoman Katie Hill, who has been accused of having a sexual relationship with a staffer in violation of House of Representatives rules, said Sunday she was stepping down.

"It is with a broken heart that today I announce my resignation from Congress," Hill said in a letter posted on Twitter.

"This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I believe it is the best thing for my constituents, my community and our country," she wrote.

It is with a broken heart that today I announce my resignation from Congress. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I believe it is the best thing for my constituents, my community, and our country.

See my official statement below. https://t.co/RO8B0znc6C

— Katie Hill (@KatieHill4CA) October 27, 2019

The House Committee on Ethics announced Wednesday that it was investigating allegations that the California Democrat -- who is going through a divorce -- "may have engaged in a sexual relationship with an individual on her congressional staff."

Hill has reportedly admitted to a relationship with a campaign staffer -- which is not against the rules -- but denied having one with a member of her congressional staff.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi released a statement after Hill's announcement saying the freshman congresswoman had "acknowledged errors in judgment that made her continued service as a Member untenable."

"We must ensure a climate of integrity and dignity in the Congress, and in all workplaces," the statement said.