Missouri Lawmaker Apologizes for Winehouse Tweet

A first-term U.S. Congressman apologized for a Twitter remark that used British singer Amy Winehouse's death to make a point about spending in Washington.

On Monday, Missouri Republican Billy Long tweeted: "No one could reach [hash mark] AmyWinehouse before it was too late. Can anyone reach Washington before it's too late? Both addicted -- same fate???"

Winehouse, 27, was found dead over the weekend in her London home. She had a history of drug and alcohol abuse; however, an autopsy has yet to determine what caused her death.

Long’s comments came as Republicans and Democrats bicker over massive debt problems facing the U.S. Republicans want to cut taxes, while Democrats seek to raise the debt ceiling.

Reacting to the outrage, Long told the Springfield News-Leader: "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, If anyone took offense, I sincerely apologize."

He added: "What happened to her was a senseless tragedy and drawing an analogy wasn't meant to minimize the loss of life."