A Texas congressman has issued an apology, following circulation of a nude photo on social media.
Congressman Joe Barton (R-Ennis) has issued an apology after a nude photo began circulating on social media. The photo, which reportedly shows a nude Barton, also featured a text that was supposedly sent by the congressman.
Barton issued an apology after the photo's posting, citing that the photo was taken during a period of separation from his wife.
"While separated from my second wife, prior to the divorce, I had sexual relationships with other mature adult women," Barton said in a statement to the Texas Tribune. "Each was consensual. Those relationships have ended. I am sorry I did not use better judgment during those days. I am sorry that I let my constituents down."
A spokesperson for House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) told the New York Times on Wednesday that Ryan had spoken with Barton but would leave the conversation between the two private.
A spokesperson for Barton told the Texas Tribune that he has no plans to resign and has filed to seek re-election in 2018.
Barton is the longest serving member of the Texas congressional delegation and chaired the Energy and Commerce Committee during President George W. Bush's tenure in the White House.
