Texas Representative Joe Barton Issues Apology For Naked Photo, Graphic Text

Rep. Joe Barton, a Texas Republican, issued an apology Wednesday after a nude photo of him and illicit texts he sent circulated online.

“While separated from my second wife, prior to the divorce, I had sexual relationships with other mature adult women,” said Barton. “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 first joined the House of Representatives in 1985 and is the longest-serving member of Congress from Texas. It is unclear when the text and photo are from. They were first posted by an anonymous Twitter user who claimed they also had videos of the congressman masturbating, according to TMZ. The text reads among other things “I want u soo bad. Right now.” The Twitter user said that they are now being harassed by Barton.

Earlier this month Barton said he would be seeking re-election, but now that bid might be in jeopardy.

“You're as aware of what was posted as I am,” said Barton to the Texas Tribune “I am talking to a number of people, all of whom I have faith in and am deciding how to respond, quite frankly.”