Here is the quote. The "if" is implied. He doesnt say that what he said was wrong just that some may have gotten the wrong impression and been offended by it. He's saying that what he meant was just fine, but that some unthinking people may have misunderstood. He's blaming the victim. Well that dog wont hunt. Thurmonds reason for running as Dixie Crat in 48 was to promote his then segregationist views. Thurmond grew in office. Apparently Lott is trapped in his childhood.
A typical Clintonian "apology." Sort of reminds me of all the efforts Clinton made at apologizing to the country over Monica.He never could get the words out could he?
"A poor choice of words conveyed to some the impression that I embrace the discarded policies of the past. Nothing could be further from the truth, and I apologize to anyone who was offended by my statement."