Michael Moore happy Rep. Akin staying in race

Documentary filmmaker Michael Moore reacted favorably Tuesday to beleaguered Rep. Todd Akin’s (R-Mo.) repeated assurances he is staying in the Missouri Senate race.

“Yes! Go Todd!” tweeted Moore, an out-spoken activist for liberal causes. According to his tweet, Moore thinks Akin staying in the race will fortify Democrat attempts to link Akin’s controversial comments on rape to the Republican presidential ticket.

Todd Akin: I’m Staying In The Race. Yes! Go Todd! Spend now to election day showing us what Romney/Ryan stand for. mmflint.me/O1na0P

— Michael Moore (@MMFlint) August 21, 2012

Akin is under fire following an interview on Sunday where he used the phrase “legitimate rape,” claiming doctors have told him instances of pregnancy resulting from rape are rare in such cases. He later said he misspoke and meant “forcible rape.” His medical claim has been rejected and he has drawn considerable ire from within his own party for confusing the public perception of the GOP platform position regarding abortion.

Akin could still drop out and many prominent Republicans, including presumptive nominee Mitt Romney, have urged him to do so.  

Akin has a 5 p.m. CDT deadline on Tuesday to leave the race without further cost to his campaign.

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