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US congressman Joe Barton apologises after 'naked selfie' emerges online

Republican congressman Joe Barton did not say how the picture ended up online: Getty Images
Republican congressman Joe Barton did not say how the picture ended up online: Getty Images

US congressman Joe Barton has apologised after an explicit picture of him ended up trending on social media.

The Republican politician appears to be naked in the photo, which is partly covered in the area between his legs.

Mr Barton was trending on Twitter on Wednesday as thousands of users discussed the image and shared it further.

“While separated from my second wife, prior to the divorce, I had sexual relationships with other mature adult women,” the 68-year-old said in a statement.

“Each was consensual,” he added. “Those relationships have ended. I am sorry I did not use better judgement during those days. I am sorry that I let my constituents down.”

Mr Barton did not explain the origins of the photo in his statement, and how it came to be shared on social media.

The original post was reportedly made by an anonymous account.

Mr Barton currently serves as vice chairman of the Energy and Commerce committee in the House of Representatives, having first been elected to Congress in 1984.

Earlier this month he said he would run for an 18th term.

However, following the release of the picture, he told the Texas Tribune he was still deciding whether to run.