McConnell to Akin: Sorry isn't enough, get out of the race

Kentucky U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell has lost his patience with Republican U.S. Senate candidate Todd Akin, calling on him to drop out of the Missouri Senate race on Tuesday.

Akin announced today on Mike Huckabee’s radio program that he will be staying in the race against Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill despite scrutiny over his controversial comments abortion.

Other Republicans had told Akin he needed to step down from the candidacy by 5 p.m. Central time to make room for another Republican candidate.

McConnell suggested yesterday that Akin “reconsider” his run for the Senate seat.

McConnell has released this latest statement after Akin vowed to stay in the race.

“Congressman Akin made a deeply offensive error at a time when his candidacy carries great consequence for the future of our country. In his heart of hearts, I’m certain that he is sincerely sorry for what he said but in this instance, when the future of our country is at stake, sorry is not sufficient. To continue serving his country in the honorable way he has served throughout his career, it is time for Congressman Akin to step aside.”

Senator McConnell could be hurt by Akin staying in the race as he is hopeful to become the Senate Majority Leader after the elections in November.