Rep. Grayson’s wife files for divorce

Rep. Alan Grayson (D-Fla.) is getting a divorce. 

Grayson’s office on Tuesday said he and his wife, Lolita, are separated. Local news reports on Tuesday found that his wife filed for divorce in the state.

{mosads}“Although the Congressman and Lolita have been together for many years, they are now separated,” his office said in a statement. “This has been a very difficult transition for everyone involved.”

The congressman, who has five children, asked that the public respect his privacy.

“Congressman Grayson’s priority remains caring for his five children and protecting their well-being, particularly during this difficult period,” the statement continued. “To that end, we ask that you respect the privacy of all members of the Grayson family as they work through this challenging time, and we thank you for your support.”

The freshman congressman was first elected in 2008. He made a comeback in Florida’s 9th District in 2012 after losing reelection in 2010.   

Considered one of the wealthiest members of Congress, Grayson was most recently in the news in December when he lost $18 million in an investment fraud scheme.