Mass. Brown tries to turn rape remark into benefit

BOSTON (AP) -- Massachusetts Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is trying to turn what could be a political liability into a chance to bolster his independent image and standing with women voters.

When Missouri Republican Senate hopeful Todd Akin claimed women's bodies can prevent pregnancies in cases of "legitimate rape," party leaders raced to denounce the remarks.

Brown not only rejected Akin's comments, but immediately called for him to resign as the GOP's nominee.

Brown, who supports abortion rights, then sent a letter to Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus, saying Republicans should accept differing view on abortion.

Brown's Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren also seized on Akin's comments, saying they're part of a Republican agenda that is harmful to women.

Warren says electing Brown would strengthen that agenda, including his opposition to a bill guaranteeing women equal pay for equal work.