US congressman resists calls to quit over rape comments
- 12 years ago
Republican congressman Todd Akin's comments about rape have ignited a fire storm.
He infuriated many when he said that women could not get pregnant from "legitimate rape".
As the comments were condemned, Akin released an ad to apologise.
SOUNDBITE: CONGRESSMAN TODD AKIN, SAYING (English):
"The truth is, rape has many victims. The mistake I made was in the words I said, not in the heart I hold. I ask for your forgiveness."
Mitt Romney is among senior Republicans calling for Akin to step aside in the U.S. Senate race in Missouri.
Some worry the issue will overshadow concern about the economy, and complicate the Republican bid for the White House.
In Missouri, reactions were mixed as to what Akin should do next.
SOUNDBITE: TYSON FUNK, MISSOURI RESIDENT, SAYING (English):
"I think what he said was misguided. He admitted it was misguided, and I'm all right with it. I think he should stay in."
SOUNDBITE: SHARON COHEN, MISSOURI RESIDENT SAYING (English):
"Akins? I'd have him get out. I think he made a mess of everything."
Akin is running in the election on November 6.
He infuriated many when he said that women could not get pregnant from "legitimate rape".
As the comments were condemned, Akin released an ad to apologise.
SOUNDBITE: CONGRESSMAN TODD AKIN, SAYING (English):
"The truth is, rape has many victims. The mistake I made was in the words I said, not in the heart I hold. I ask for your forgiveness."
Mitt Romney is among senior Republicans calling for Akin to step aside in the U.S. Senate race in Missouri.
Some worry the issue will overshadow concern about the economy, and complicate the Republican bid for the White House.
In Missouri, reactions were mixed as to what Akin should do next.
SOUNDBITE: TYSON FUNK, MISSOURI RESIDENT, SAYING (English):
"I think what he said was misguided. He admitted it was misguided, and I'm all right with it. I think he should stay in."
SOUNDBITE: SHARON COHEN, MISSOURI RESIDENT SAYING (English):
"Akins? I'd have him get out. I think he made a mess of everything."
Akin is running in the election on November 6.