Sen. David Vitter (R-Louisiana), a critic of tribal gaming, apologized for a "very serious sin" after his phone number turned up in the records of a Washington, D.C., escort business.

"Several years ago, I asked for and received forgiveness from God and my wife in confession and marriage counseling," Vitter said in a statement. "Out of respect for my family, I will keep my discussion of the matter there -- with God and them. But I certainly offer my deep and sincere apologies to all I have disappointed and let down in any way."

Vitter has fought efforts by the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians to engage in Class III gaming and to acquire land in Louisiana. His office was responsible for anti-gaming language that appeared in a 2004 Interior appropriations bill. The rider was initially drafted by Jack Abramoff's associates.

Citing the explosion of Indian gaming, Vitter this year introduced legislation to restrict tribal campaign contributions. It was defeated on the Senate floor.

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Senator's Number on 'Madam' Phone List (The Washington Post 7/10)
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