Nation/World

Akin dismisses controversy over 'ladylike' remark

U.S. Senate candidate Todd Akin today in Kansas City dismissed the controversy over his use of the word "ladylike" to describe his opponent, Claire McCaskill, as much ado about nothing.

"I was using this just as the English language uses those terms," he said in response to a reporter's question.

He said what's offensive is McCaskill's voting record.

On Thursday, Akin said that his Democratic opponent had been more "ladylike" in her first race for the U.S. Senate in 2006. He said McCaskill was more aggressive in their first debate last Friday because she's worried that she's losing the race.

Akin insisted that "a whole lot of women" are backing his campaign because of the struggling economy and McCaskill's push to get the federal government "involved in everything."

Akin also was asked if he expects Missouri Sen. Roy Blunt to campaign for him and help him raise money.

"That remains to be seen," Akin said.

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Blunt is a fellow Republican who had urged Akin to withdraw from the race after his remarks about "legitimate rape," only to switch course and announce his support for Akin this week.

Akin once again said the contrast between himself and McCaskill is dramatic, but that he is the better choice because of his willingness to stand on principle on a host of issues.

About 30 people, some with placards, showed up to protest against Akin during his Kansas City campaign stop.

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Steve Kraske

Kansas City Star

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