Ensign Apologizes to Senate for Ethical Lapses

Nevada Republican Sen. John Ensign, who is stepping down Tuesday, issued an apology to his Senate colleagues for ethical lapses that led to his resignation, USA Today reported Tuesday.

Sen. John Ensign: Power of adulation is dangerous. (Getty Images Photo)

"I was blind to how arrogant and self-centered I had become," Ensign said. "I did not recognize that I thought mostly of myself.

"The worst part about this is that I even tried not to become caught up in my own self-importance. Unfortunately, the urge to believe in it was stronger than the power to fight it. This is how dangerous the feeling of power adulation can be," he said.

He then addressed the Senate and his colleagues "for what you have each gone through as a result of my actions. I know that many of you were put in difficult situations because of me, and for that I sincerely apologize."

Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval has appointed U.S. Rep. Dean Heller to replace Ensign in the Senate.