U.S. Rep. Geoff Davis apologized Monday for calling presidential contender and U.S. Sen. Barack Obama "boy" during a dinner over the weekend, an attempt to tamp down a controversy that quickly blossomed over the blogosphere.

"My poor choice of words is regrettable and was in no way meant to impugn you or your integrity. I offer my sincere apology to you and ask for your forgiveness," Davis wrote in a letter that staffers said was hand-delivered to Obama's U.S. Senate office.

Davis, a Republican representing Northern Kentucky, continued: "Though we may disagree on many issues, I know that we share the goal of a prosperous, secure future for our nation. My comment has detracted from the dialogue that we should all be having on legitimate policy differences and in no way reflects the personal and professional respect I have for you."

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