Ann Wagner Calls Todd Akin's Statements About Rape 'Indefensible'

Ann Wagner, the woman looking to succeed Representative Todd Akin in Congress, issued her first public statement Thursday to address the furor raised by . The statement does not call on Akin to drop out of the race, as many in the party, including presumptive Presidential candidate Mitt Romney did earlier this week.

Her statement reads as follows:

“As a staunch defender of the unborn I believe life begins at conception. Todd Akin's comments about rape were wrong and indefensible. Todd has apologized and understands he was wrong in what he said.

It is now up to Missouri voters to decide whether they accept his apology. Our country is at a crossroads and we are facing serious issues brought on by the overreach of government in our lives, out-of-control spending and debt, and an environment that does not promote job creation and economic prosperity. I have been running for Congress in Missouri's 2nd District for 16 months and will continue to work hard to earn the trust and confidence of every voter.”

Wagner has been seen by some as a potential candidate to jump into the race were Akin to leave. He declined to get off the ballot by a Tuesday deadline to do so without taking the issue to court.

Observers were left wondering what Wagner's statement really meant, as it did not include a firm commitment to stay in the race for the 2nd Congressional District.

Ironically,

Wagner herself is unsure who her Democratic opponent will be in November.

Creve Coeur Patch Editor Gregg Palermo contributed information for this report.