Todd Akin releases apology video

Missouri Rep. Todd Akin released an apology video Monday evening following his now infamous remarks regarding "legitimate rape."

As GlobalPost reported on Sunday, the controversy began when the representative went on local TV and defended his staunch anti-abortion beliefs. During the interview, Akin said: “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down, but let's assume that maybe that didn't work or something. I think there should be some punishment, but the punishment ought to be on the rapist and not attacking the child." 

Following the interview, both Republicans and Democrats alike condemned Akin's statements. Several Republicans, including Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown, called for Akin to withdraw from his re-election campaign.

Even presidential candidate Mitt Romney is trying to distance himself from Akin's remarks. During a phone interview with the National Review Online, Romney said, “Congressman’s Akin [sic.] comments on rape are insulting, inexcusable, and, frankly, wrong. Like millions of other Americans, we found them to be offensive.”

The Romney campaign also issued a disclaimer saying, “Governor Romney and Congressman Ryan disagree with Mr. Akin’s statement, and a Romney-Ryan administration would not oppose abortion in instances of rape."

Akin has defended himself, telling Mike Huckabee during a radio interview that he has no plans of abandoning his campaign and adding, "I'm not a quitter."

Akin has until 5 p.m. to step aside without a court order. According to the Washington Post, If Akin decides to leave the race, Republicans can select a replacement. If he decides to remain in the race, he would have until Sept. 25 to petition a court to be removed from the ballot.

"After Sept. 25, Missouri candidate names remain on the ballot, even in the event of death," the Washington Post reported.