Ensign returns to Washington after affair

WASHINGTON, June 23 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., has returned to Washington after admitting he had an extramarital affair with a campaign aide.

Ensign returned to the Capitol Monday, receiving handshakes from colleagues in his first public appearance since last week when he disclosed the affair, The Las Vegas Sun reported.

The newspaper said Ensign was wearing a dark suit and red tie as he arrived on the Senate floor, appearing upbeat as he shook hands with Democratic Sens. John Kerry of Massachusetts, Chuck Schumer of New York and others.

Reportedly by Ensign's side was fellow GOP senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma.

Since the affair was disclosed, Ensign, formerly one of Nevada's most-liked politicians, has seen his popularity erode and has resigned the No. 4 GOP Senate leadership post, the Sun said.