Minnesota State Representative Pat Garofalo (R-District: 58B) tweeted a controversial tweet Sunday which some are saying is racially charged.

But in responding to an email from Deadspin, Garofalo defended his comments after a barrage of people called him a racist and moron on Twitter.

He said,

“I was talking about the NBA’s high arrest rate and that their punishment for positive drugs tests are weaker than other leagues. No intent beyond that. The culture among many pro athletes that they are above the law is the problem, not people like me pointing that problem out.”

Today, the Minnesota representative posted a press release on the Minnesota House of Representatives web site.

He wrote,

"In the last 24 hours, I've had the opportunity to re-learn one of life's lessons: whenever any of us are offering public opinions, it is best to refer to people as individuals as opposed to groups. Last night, I publicly commented on the NBA and I sincerely apologize to those who I unfairly categorized. The NBA has many examples of players and owners who are role models for our communities and for our country. Those individuals do not deserve that criticism and I apologize. In additions, its been brought to my attention that I was mistaken and the NBA policy on drug enforcement is stronger than I previously believed. Again, I offer my sincere apologies for my comments."