Miami-area Republican Sen. Frank Artiles has apologized to colleagues after he reportedly used a variation of the "n-word."

  • Florida legislator reportedly used 'n-word' at Tallahassee gathering
  • Sen. Frank Artiles is also accused of using belittling language
  • Artiles apologized on Florida Senate floor Wednesday morning

"In an exchange with a colleague of mine in the Senate, I unfortunately let my temper get the best of me. There is no excuse for the exchange that occurred and I have apologized to my Senate colleagues and regret the incident profusely," Artiles said, according to reports.

The apology comes after Artiles is accused of using a variation of the "n-word" in private conversation at Tallahassee's Governor's Club with Democratic Sens. Audrey Gibson of Jacksonville and Perry Thurston of Fort Lauderdale earlier in the week. They said Artiles also used obscene and belittling language directed at them in the Monday night conversation.

Gibson said it was the most disrespect she has ever encountered.

Artiles apologized Tuesday afternoon, after Senate President Joe Negron was told about the incident. Negron, a Republican, issued a statement saying the senators had resolved the matter, but Artiles formally apologized on the Senate floor Wednesday.

 

The Florida Democratic Party is calling on Artiles to step down.

Joe Negron removed Artiles as chairman of the Communications, Energy and Public Utilities Committee on Wednesday.

Negron has also announced the appointment of a special master to investigate the matter and report back to the Senate Rules Committee by April 25.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.