"The politician's lies were finally exposed, and he had

Solution

The idiom "faced the music" means to accept responsibility for one's actions, especially when it results in negative consequences. In this case, the speaker is admitting to making a mistake and taking responsibility for it. The other options are unrelated idioms. a) Pay the piper - Face the consequences of one's actions, especially when it involves a cost or a debt. b) Face the music - Accept responsibility for something, especially when it results in negative consequences. c) Kick the bucket - Euphemism for dying or passing away. d) Let the cat out of the bag - Accidentally reveal a secret or confidential information. e) Beat around the bush - Avoid talking about something directly, often by using indirect or vague language.