A Texas congressman has apologized for a nude picture of himself circulating online.
Republican Rep. Joe Barton apologized for the photo in a statement on Wednesday provided to the Texas Tribune.
“While separated from my second wife, prior to the divorce, I had sexual relationships with other mature adult women,” he said. “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.”
Barton also told the Tribune:
“You’re as aware of what was posted as I am,” he said. “I am talking to a number of people, all of whom I have faith in and am deciding how to respond, quite frankly.”
The nude photo also was accompanied by a raunchy text where he wrote “I want u soo bad. Right now. Deep and hard.”
A spokesperson told the Tribune Barton has no plans to resign and has filed for reelection.
The photo of Barton, a longtime congressman and staunch conservative, began circulating after it appeared on an anonymous Twitter account. He is a member of the far-right House Freedom Caucus, according to Politico. He was also the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce committee.
Barton has been criticized for his views on science regarding climate change and was on the baseball field in June when a gunman opened fire, wounding Rep. Steve Scalise.
You can read more about Barton’s apology here.