Todd Akin has been attacked by Republicans and President Obama over his belief that rape doesn't cause pregnancy
Missouri Senate candidate Todd Akin has caused outrage around the world after suggesting women who are victims of ‘legitimate’ rape are unlikely to get pregnant, as ‘the female body has ways to shut down the whole thing.’
His opinions regarding rape and abortion were made known during a TV interview at the TV station KTVI in St Louis, when Akin spoke to Mike Huckabee, a Republican and former governor.
He also added: :I think there should be some punishment, but the punishment ought to be on the rapist and not the attacking child.'
Akin was expected to take the Missouri Senate seat before his comments emerged, with many in disbelief that someone could even present such an argument.
Republican Mitt Romney commented on Mr Akin’s views, describing them as, ‘insulting, inexcusable, and, frankly wrong.’ President Barack Obama agreed that the comments were ‘offensive’ and ‘way out there.’
It appears that his fellow Republicans have immediatelyattempted to distance themselves from his comments.
'Governor Romney and Congressman Ryan disagree with Mr Akin’s statement,' the campaign said. 'A Romney-Ryan administration would not oppose abortion in instances of rape.'
Opponent Claire McCaskill commented however, that the decision of the people of Missouri should be made on Akin’s politics.
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