Rep. Aaron 'Downton Abbey' Schock to resign amid ethics scandal

Rep. Aaron Schock (R-Ill.) is resigning amid a flurry of ethics scandals involving his lavish use of campaign funds and taxpayer money.

"I do this with a heavy heart," Schock said in a statement Tuesday, adding that, "the constant questions over the last six weeks have proven a great distraction that has made it too difficult for me to serve."

Schock came under fire after The Washington Post reported he spent $40,000 decorating his office to look like the TV show Downton Abbey. Subsequent reports raised questions about Schock's use of private charter planes, acceptance of unreported gifts, and his decision to charge taxpayers for mileage on his truck.

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Schock's resignation is effective at the end of the month.