Akin's Next Move: TV-Ad Apology

Todd Akin has been backtracking all over the place since he said that "legitimate rape" victims don't get pregnant, but now he's offered a mea culpa in the form of a new campaign ad. "Rape is an evil act. I used the wrong words in the wrong way and for that I apologize," says the Republican congressman and Senate candidate. "The fact is, rape can lead to pregnancy. 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."

He also noted that, "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." Politico notes that Akin has until 5pm today to exit the race (after that deadline, a court order would be needed to wipe his name from the ballot, explains the AP), and many of his fellow Republicans are hoping he'll drop out of the race. But he's promised to stay in, and his decision to make a campaign ad suggests that he will do just that. (More Todd Akin stories.)