Sen. Orrin Hatch has joined the chorus of Republicans calling on Alabama GOP Senate candidate Roy Moore to quit the race following allegations he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl.
Hatch’s office tweeted a message on Monday morning in support of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s call for Moore to step aside, saying he agrees with McConnell on the issue, calling the accusations against Moore “serious and disturbing.” Hatch also suggested that Luther Strange, who lost the GOP primary to Moore, would be a good replacement.
I stand with the Majority Leader on this. These are serious and disturbing accusations, and while the decision is now in the hands of the people of Alabama, I believe Luther Strange is an excellent alternative. https://t.co/L7IallXhBc
— Orrin Hatch (@OrrinHatch) November 13, 2017
Five women have accused Moore of sexual misconduct, the latest coming forward on Monday claiming Moore assaulted her when she was 16.
Sen. Mike Lee pulled his support for Moore last week, demanding the campaign stop using his picture in fundraising materials. Lee had endorsed Moore prior to the allegations of sexual assault.
Former GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney called on Moore to step down last week.
Senate GOP campaign chairman Cory Gardner said on Monday the Senate should expel Moore if he wins the special election next month.
