Senator Bob Corker said remarks made in 2005 by Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump about women are "obviously very inappropriate and offensive."
Senator Corker also said, "His apology was absolutely necessary."
He stated, "Like most Americans who are witnessing the most unprecedented presidential campaign of their lifetime with dismay, each of us is trying to determine the most responsible manner in which to conduct ourselves and move our country forward.
"During my time leading the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, we have worked to ensure it is a place where we seek to find productive bipartisan solutions to our foreign policy challenges. Whenever issues have arisen that we believe might be used solely for partisan political purposes, I have met privately in a classified setting with my counterpart, sought intelligence input, and tried to discern the best way to operate our committee in a manner that focuses solely on what is best for U.S. national interests.
"During this campaign cycle, I have been contacted by multiple campaigns, candidates, and allies around the world, seeking input regarding foreign policy matters and U.S. national interests. I continue to make myself available to all entities who are in a position or may be in a position to influence how our nation leads in a very troubled world, and I will be watching tomorrow night's debate very closely."
Melody Shekari, Democratic Candidate for Tennessee's Third Congressional District, said, "Donald Trump bragged about committing sexual assault. There is nothing else to say. His comments disqualify him from being a leader or representative of the American people.
"Anyone who believes he is fit for office condones his remarks and demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the sisters, mothers, and daughters of America. We need a president who will keep us safe and not one who literally assaults us.
"If Chuck Fleischmann continues to support Donald Trump he shows himself no better than Trump's disgusting remarks. I am asking Chuck Fleischmann directly to denounce Trump's candidacy immediately."