The ninth-most senior member of the House, Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas), apologized today for a nude photo of himself that’s been making the rounds, while admitting it was authentic.
— ??TXSnark7?? (@TXsnark7) 22 November 2017
The Texas Tribune first reported Barton’s statement:
“While separated from my second wife, prior to the divorce, I had sexual relationships with other mature adult women. 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.”
Although he reportedly told the Tribune that he is re-thinking his political career and bid to be reelected, a spokeswoman later told the Dallas Morning News that Barton, 68, has no intentions of backing down.
NEW: @RepJoeBarton spokeswoman said he has no plans to step down. https://t.co/cKFaWaY0lo
— Katie Leslie (@katieleslienews) 22 November 2017
Barton’s peer, fellow-Texan and GOP House member Rep. Michael Burgess, had this to say:
Fellow Texas GOP Rep. Michael Burgess calls it “disturbing.”
“Moving forward, I expect for Mr. Barton to make the correct decision for his constituents and his family. I am saddened for everyone involved,” he said.
Burgess, notably, didn’t say what the “correct” decision is. https://t.co/YkwGX8BqmP— Katie Leslie (@katieleslienews) 22 November 2017
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