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Next week, the national Republican Party is set to adopt a platform that calls for a Constitutional amendment banning abortion. And some members of the party support a complete ban, even when a woman’s life is in danger or in cases of rape or incest.

During an appearance this afternoon, however, Republican Congressional candidate Maggie Brooks sought to distance herself from the extreme end of her party.

“I’m a pro-life Republican, but I certainly agree with abortion in the case of incest or if the mother’s life is in danger or certainly rape,” Brooks said. “I mean, that’s not an extreme view, and it’s something I’ve been consistent about since I ran for county executive in 2003, when a lot of women political people in Monroe County criticized me then.”

Brooks has condemned recent remarks by Republican Representative Todd Akin, who said that the female body has ways to stop pregnancies from “legitimate rape.” The comment set off a massive backlash, as much for its factual inaccuracy as for the word choice.

“It was a ridiculous statement,” Brooks said today. “It was a stupid statement.”

Brooks has challenged incumbent Democrat Louise Slaughter to six debates, which she reiterated during this afternoon’s availability. The opponents have already agreed to one, and Brooks says Slaughter is sidestepping the additional challenges.