Finley Is a United States Senator

Finley is a United States Senator.While at a friend's wedding he comments that another senator,Glen,is corrupt and is an alcoholic and drug addict.A reporter overhears this statement and includes the conversation in a written report that is published in the state's largest newspaper.Glen is called before a Senate investigatory committee and his reputation is permanently scarred.Is Finley guilty of defamation?

A) yes, he has committed slander
B) yes, he has committed libel
C) no, he didn't disseminate the information to a third party, the reporter did
D) no, he has an absolute privilege as a government official