US row over rape pregnancy remark

Answer 1

Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO) said he misspoke when he said in a television interview that women's bodies were naturally able to prevent pregnancy in a "legitimate rape".

Akin was explaining his position against allowing abortions in cases of rape and claimed that such pregnancies are rare in the first place.

Akin's comments have been widely condemned by other Republicans, including presidential candidate Mitt Romney and his running mate Paul Ryan who said they do not oppose abortion in cases of rape.

Akin's biological view on women have sparked concern over his position in the House Committee on Science. Despite Akin saying that he misspoke during the interview, he maintained his opposition to abortion for victims of rape.

Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO), who is running against Akin for the Senate seat and trailing in opinion polls, said his comments were beyond comprehension.