Kirk apologizes for being 'careless' on his record

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- Republican Senate candidate Mark Kirk publicly apologized Tuesday for being "careless" in describing his military service and background, after a series of embellishments were revealed that could threaten his bid for President Barack Obama's former seat.

As Kirk apologized, however, he also acknowledged something his campaign had flatly denied just two weeks ago - that he was twice scolded by the Pentagon for improperly mingling politics with his military duties. He also tried to address criticism that he has made too much of his past teaching experience.

After a month of eluding questions and relying on written statements by his campaign, Kirk offered the mea culpa at his first news conference since reports surfaced about his false claims, including a prestigious military award that he didn't win.

"I have made mistakes concerning certain aspects of my accomplishments and experience and I apologize for those mistakes and I pledge to correct those errors," Kirk, a five-term congressman from Chicago's northern suburbs, told supporters and reporters. "I am not perfect and was careless. I will do better and I will make sure that this never happens again."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/29/AR2010062902686.html

done well in polling but now seems to be ducking the press at every turn.

It doesn't sound like he's running a very competent campaign. Worse than usual for a Republican, I mean.

I hope the seat stays blue and it looks like Kirk is working to ensure that it does.

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