The investigation comes at a rather bleak time for Bronx Democrats.

But what makes this race intriguing to many Bronx Democrats is that so many labor unions have become heavily involved.

The move presents the Bronx Democrat with a stark choice: end his 20-year political career by resigning or face the likelihood of expulsion.

But ethnic political passions are clearly a backdrop against which the discussions among Bronx Democrats will take place.

"The unions have to understand that we cannot put the city back to where it were in 1976, '75 and '74," said the Bronx Democrat.

Many Bronx Democrats expect that this year's race in the district will be close.

These have been tough months for Bronx Democrats.

"I don't deny that Esposito paid for the trip," the Bronx Democrat said.

The 10-term Bronx Democrat has been convicted and sentenced to prison for accepting illegal gifts.

As a result, many leading Bronx Democrats say he will win.