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Albany has come to resemble the climactic scene of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, with State Sen. Hiram Monserrate (D-Corona) having nary a chance even ask "Et tu?" before another prominent Democrat stabs him in the back.

The floodgates opened nearly immediately after he was found guilty of third degree assault, a misdemeanor that would not require his expulsion from the Senate.

Senate Majority Conference Leader John Sampson (D-Brooklyn) announced the creation of a "special committee of inquiry" comprised of nine members that will explore whether or not the 42-year-old should lose his seat.

The committee could potentially call Monserrate and his girlfriend Karla Giraldo to testify publicly about the Dec. 19, 2008 incident that left Giraldo needing 40 stitches after she was cut with a glass.

The committee could ultimately suggest Monserrate's expulsion, which the full Senate would have to approve in a vote.

The cries for Monserrate's head started with Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Sunnyside), who released a statement demanding Monserrate's expulsion. It was quickly followed by such prominent names as U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) who is also the head of the county democratic party.

"Mr. Monserrate's conviction for recklessly injuring his girlfriend leaves too many questions about his judgment and ability to lead," Crowley said in a statement. "His violent behavior was not befitting a public official, and Queens residents deserve the opportunity to elect a new representative."

Add into the mix Assemblyman Jose Peralta (D-Jackson Heights), and Councilman John Liu (D-Flushing) and the State's Young Democrats, and it appears Monserrate has very few friends left among Queens Democrats.

The committee will be comprised of five Democrats, including State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing), and four Republicans.

Reach Reporter Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com, or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127