The chairman of the House Page Board, Rep. John Shimkus, R-Ill., released a statement saying he was made aware of the e-mail exchange in late 2005, investigated the matter and believed no impropriety had occurred. He said Foley told him he was a ''mentor'' to the page. Shimkus also said he and the House clerk told Foley to cease contact with the page anyhow, that Foley agreed to do so and that Shimkus heard no further complaints.
Shimkus said he now will investigate the matter anew: ``It has become clear . . . Congressman Foley was not honest about his conduct.''
One former page tells ABC News that his class was warned about Foley by people involved in the program. Other pages told ABC News they were hesitant to report Foley because of his power in Congress.
Can you hear me groaning up there?