Embattled candidate Todd Akin has recorded a television ad asking for forgiveness in a bid to save his ever-declining chances of holding on to the Republican nomination for the Senate.
In the ad he said he “used the wrong words in the wrong way,” when he said women usually don’t get pregnant after a “legitimate” rape because their bodies shut down.
He ends the 30-second spot with the words, "The mistake I made was in the words I said, not in the heart I hold. I ask for your forgiveness."
Before that, Akin, 65, looks straight at the camera to say, "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. The fact is, rape can lead to pregnancy. The truth is, rape has many victims."
The ad was produced by the Strategy Group for Media, which was behind Akin’s victory in the Aug. 7 GOP primary. The six-term congressman is facing strong calls from national Republican figures to stand down due to his remarks.
Watch Todd Akin's new ad.
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