Context:

Blake Farenthold, a former U.S. Representative from Texas, passed away at the age of 63 due to heart and liver issues. He left Congress amid sexual harassment allegations from a former aide, which he denied while apologizing for unprofessional office conduct. Farenthold, who was elected in 2010 after defeating a long-standing Democratic incumbent, opted not to seek reelection after the allegations surfaced. Known for his early interest in technology, he continued to engage with the public through a radio show after his political career. Farenthold is survived by his wife, Debbie, and their two daughters, Morgan Baucum and Amanda Lawrence.

Dive Deeper:

• Blake Farenthold, a former Republican U.S. Representative from Texas, died at 63 in a Corpus Christi hospital, having struggled with heart and liver problems in recent years.

• Elected in 2010, Farenthold unseated Democratic U.S. Rep. Solomon Ortiz and later faced sexual harassment allegations, which he denied, though he admitted to an unprofessional work environment.

• He announced his decision not to seek reelection in a Facebook video, citing the potential lengthy process of clearing his name as a reason to step down.

• Farenthold's political career was characterized by his interest in technology and the internet, areas he focused on before and during his time in Congress.

• Post-Congress, he hosted his own radio show, indicating his continued engagement with public discourse until his passing.

• His former political consultant, Steve Ray, described Farenthold as having made mistakes but also as having a genuine commitment to issues like fighting crime and promoting transparency.

• Farenthold is survived by his wife, Debbie, and their two daughters, Morgan Baucum and Amanda Lawrence, highlighting the family's presence in his life.