Missouri Senate candidate Todd Akin released an apology ad Tuesday asking voters to forgive him for suggesting that victims of “legitimate rape” rarely get pregnant.
“Rape is an evil act. I used the wrong words in the wrong way and for that I apologize. As the father of two daughters, I want tough justice for predators. I have a compassionate heart for the victims of sexual assault. I pray for them,” Akin says. “The fact is, rape can lead to pregnancy. The truth is, rape has many victims.”
Akin continues: “The mistake I made was in the words I said, not in the heart I hold. I ask for your forgiveness.”
Does this mean Akin plans to remain in the U.S. Senate race despite a growing chorus of voices asking him to drop out?
Doesn't look like Todd Akin plans on going away. Here's his apology ad: http://t.co/8GRFU0hE
— Peter Hershberg (@hershberg) August 21, 2012
NEW VIDEO: Rep Akin ad asks forgiveness. Likely means he is *not* dropping out today. http://t.co/4oSwx4Kr
— Cassidy Moody (@CassFM) August 21, 2012
A new PPP poll indicates Akin has 44 percent support while incumbent Claire McCaskill has 43 percent.
If you're just waking up, Akin has an apology ad up & is looking at a (v early) @ppppolls showing him even w @clairecmc http://t.co/2kpvhqmY
— Jonathan Martin (@jmartNYT) August 21, 2012
But the video apology may be too little, too late.
Never a good sign for a campaign when you have to close your latest ad with "I ask for your forgiveness." http://t.co/48X7ZA7e
— Dan Lehr (@Public_Interest) August 21, 2012
Oh, Lord. @aburnspolitico: AKIN'S APOLOGY AD: http://t.co/10ZZUcjC
— Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) August 21, 2012
Political Memo: When running for public office, don't put yourself in the position where you have to make this video: http://t.co/tFJfMg8m
— Alex Kantrowitz (@Kantrowitz) August 21, 2012
Perhaps Akin should have gone with the ol’ standby:
How come @ToddAkin didn't just come out and BLAME BUSH? How could any of the fool #MSM question him then? #mosen #tcot
— Allan (@UnrealAllan) August 21, 2012
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