McClatchy Washington Bureau

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Former state election director Rusty DePass issued an apology Wednesday for his comments last week linking an escaped gorilla with the ancestors of First Lady Michelle Obama.

The formal apology came during a noon press conference at the offices of the State NAACP.

"I am truly sorry for any offense I have caused," DePass said, speaking to a small group gathered for the press conference.

"My remark was clearly inappropriate and I apologize for writing it."

DePass said he has also sent a letter to Michelle Obama apologizing, though he declined to make the letter available to the public.

Read the complete story at thestate.com