A top Republican lawmaker in Alabama apologized for making disparaging remarks about "aborigines" -- more than two months after the comments were aired at a federal corruption trial.

Sen. Scott Beason (R), the chairman of the powerful Senate Rules Committee, wore a wire for the FBI. His remarks about the African-American patrons at a particular gaming facility were brought up when he testified in June.

“That’s y’all’s Indians,” one Republican said.

“They’re aborigines, but they’re not Indians,” Beason replied.

At the time, Beason said he didn't know why he made that comment. He reiterated that defense yesterday but also apologized.

"My purpose today is to say that I am very sorry and I apologize to anyone whose feelings were hurt by my comment," Beason said at a press conference, The Birmingham News reported.

The trial came out of a anti-gaming crackdown by former governor Bob Riley (R). He shut down non-Indian operated facilities that were offering electronic bingo machines.

Riley at one point threatened to go after the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

Get the Story:
Alabama state Sen. Scott Beason apologizes for calling black people 'aborigines.' (The Birmingham News 9/28)
Ala senator apologizes for calling blacks ‘aborigines’; heard on corruption trial recordings (AP 9/28)

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GOP lawmaker made disparaging remarks about 'aborigines' (6/17)