US politician drops re-election bid after affair with British 'ISIS bride' exposed

A Republican congressman has dropped his re-election bid after an affair with a British former “ISIS bride” was exposed.

Van Taylor, who was bidding for a third consecutive term in office of Texas’ third congressional district, has admitted to the affair with Tania Joya, a London-born woman once married to an ISIS leader.

In an email to his supporters, Mr Taylor confirmed he was ending his campaign, before apologising to his wife and three daughters.

Mr Taylor said: “Today I am announcing I will not continue my campaign to seek re-election to Congress.

“I want to apologise for the pain I have caused with my indiscretion, most of all to my wife Anne and our three daughters.

"For months, Anne and I have been working to repair the scars left by my actions. I am unworthy, but eternally thankful for her love and forgiveness.

“Now, over the last few days I have started those same conversations with my three daughters who are the light of my life and deserve so much better.”

Mr Taylor was due to head into a runoff against former County judge Keith Self after he failed to win more than 50 percent of the votes for an outright victory in Tuesday's vote.

"I have talked with Keith Self to let him know of my decision, and I wish him the best as he seeks to become the next congressman for this district," Mr Taylor added.