The Wright thing: say 'sorry'

Wilmington talk radio host Curtis Wright has apologized for circulating a letter in May saying now-N.C. Republican Party Chairman Tom Fetzer is gay.

A lengthy apology letter from Wright released today settles a lawsuit that Fetzer filed against Wright and his employer, Sea-Comm, Inc. In his apology letter, Wright said he forwarded the anonymous letter about Fetzer and a copy of "a personal letter" written by Fetzer's opponent for the chairmanship to various county chairs of the Republican Party to make those party leaders aware of the letters and the possible damage to the GOP.

Wright emphasized that he never vouched for the accuracy of the letters and describes in laudatory terms his interaction with Fetzer during the race for party chairman, adding that Fetzer has his full support.

No money was paid in settling the suit.

"I am pleased with the settlement of this issue and with Mr. Wright’s clarification and apology," Fetzer said in a prepared statement. "This was never an issue of monetary compensation, but instead the preservation of my good name and reputation. With this settlement, I consider the issue closed."