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Sen. Kirk Issues Apology Amid Lingering Controversy About 'Ho' Remark

(AP) – U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk has apologized for what he said to a fellow senator that was captured by an open microphone on the U.S. Senate floor and offended many.

Last week, Kirk, who is seeking re-election in 2016, called fellow Republican senator and presidential candidate Lindsey Graham, a bachelor, a "bro with no ho." Kirk reportedly followed up with: "that's what we'd say on the South Side."

In the statement released Monday, Kirk said he apologizes to the people of Illinois "for my inappropriate remarks last week."

A spokeswoman for Kirk issued an apology for the remark shortly after it became known. Monday's apology came after Democratic Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth, who is seeking to replace Kirk, called on him to "step up" and personally apologize.

(© 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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