Politics | Billy Long Congressman Apologizes for Winehouse Tweet Missouri's Billy Long drew connection to debt ceiling debate By John Johnson Posted Jul 26, 2011 1:22 PM CDT Copied In this2010 file photo, then-Rep.-elect Billy Long, R-Mo., talks with the media on Capitol Hill. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) Ah, the Amy Winehouse-debt ceiling connection. Don't see it? Missouri GOP Congressman Billy Long thought it was obvious: ""No one could reach #AmyWinehouse before it was too late. Can anyone reach Washington before it's too late? Both addicted - same fate???" he tweeted. Now he's apologizing after taking flak that the comment was inappropriate, reports the News-Leader of Springfield. "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," he texted to the newspaper. "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." (Microsoft UK also apologized for a Winehouse tweet, this one pushing her records.) Read These Next Her blood isn't compatible with anyone else's. Some of the most explosive Diddy allegations are dropped. Fan who taunted Ketel Marte's mom has been banned by MLB. NJ lifeguard survives after being impaled by an umbrella. Report an error