LAS VEGAS (AP) - U.S. Sen. John Ensign is asking supporters to help fund his defense against ethics allegations stemming from an extramarital affair with an aide and efforts to help the woman's husband find work.
In letters sent last week, the Nevada Republican insists he is "absolutely" innocent of claims that have led to Senate Ethics Committee and the Justice Department probes.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Friday the letter seeks contributions of up to $10,000.
The undated letter blames Ensign's ethics woes on "a liberal organization," Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington.
CREW on Friday denied it filed its ethics complaint against Ensign because of his party affiliation, and called for Ensign to resign.
Ensign created a legal defense fund in May and registered it with the Senate.