Missouri Rep. Billy Long apologized Tuesday after posting a tweet comparing Amy Winehouse’s death to the inability of Congress to increase the nation’s debt ceiling.
“Although I do believe spending 42 percent more than we take in is an addiction, I certainly meant no disrespect to Amy, her family, or her fans,” Long said. “She was one of the few true artists to come along in a long time. What happened to her was a senseless tragedy and drawing an analogy wasn’t meant to minimize the loss of life. If anyone took offense, I sincerely apologize.”
“No one could reach #AmyWinehouse before it was too late. Can anyone reach Washington before it’s too late? Both addicted _ same fate???” Mr. Long posted on his Twitter account Sunday.
The British pop star, who was found dead over the weekend, was laid to rest Tuesday. Ms. Winehouse’s body was discovered in her London home on Saturday and an autopsy conducted Monday was inconclusive as toxicology tests can take up to four weeks to determine the cause of death.
Mr. Long’s comment comes as Congressional lawmakers continue to debate raising the nation’s debt ceiling. House Speaker John Boehner is reportedly preparing a bill aimed at reducing spending by upwards of $1 trillion. A Congressional Budget Office estimate, released Tuesday, noted the Ohio Republican’s proposal would only reduce spending by $900 billion.
