George Allen, the Republican Senate nominee in Virginia, condemned comments by Rep. Todd Akin that victims of “legitimate rape” don’t get pregnant in a statement released Monday morning. Allen said he “strongly disapprove[d]” of Akin’s comments and outlined his own commitment to helping victims of rape.
“While Congressman Akin may have addressed his statement, like many men and women I strongly disapprove of his original comments — and the sentiments behind them. Having served on a Rape Crisis Board many years ago, I saw how both physically and emotionally harmful rape is for its victims, and this is why I believe there should be an exception for rape. As Governor I took those experiences from my time on the Board as well as other experiences and made establishing truth in sentencing and abolition of lenient, dangerous parole a top priority to crack down on rapists and other violent offenders. Regardless of party, we all have a responsibility to unite against any leniency on crimes against women and turn our focus to the solutions that make America stronger and safer.”
