SACRAMENTO–A California state senator who has staunchly opposed homosexual rights now says he is gay, ending days of speculation that began after his arrest last week for investigation of driving under the influence.

Roy Ashburn, a conservative Republican, came out in an interview with KERN radio. He said he felt compelled to address rumours he had visited a gay nightclub before his arrest on March 3.

Reports emerged that an unidentified man was in the car with him.

"I am gay ... those are the words that have been so difficult for me for so long," Ashburn, 55, said Monday.

The father of four said he tried to keep his personal and professional lives separate until the arrest.

"When I crossed the line and broke the law and put people at risk, that's different, and I do owe people an explanation," he said.