The U.S. House of Representatives has experienced a series of resignations in recent days as lawmakers face ethics investigations, disrupting the chamber's balance of power.

Florida Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigned Tuesday before a scheduled ethics hearing regarding alleged misconduct. Her departure marks the third congressional resignation within the past week.

The resignations come as the House Ethics Committee continues investigating multiple members for various alleged violations. Florida Republican Rep. Cory Mills faces an ongoing ethics investigation related to allegations of sexual misconduct and campaign finance violations, though he has stated he will not resign despite the probe.

The wave of departures affects the narrow margins that have characterized recent congressional sessions. Each resignation temporarily reduces the total number of voting members until special elections can be held to fill vacant seats.

The House Ethics Committee, which consists of equal numbers of Republican and Democratic members, investigates allegations of misconduct against House members and can recommend disciplinary actions ranging from censure to expulsion.