Many in New Jersey and around the nation are weighing in on comments about women and rape made by a GOP congressman from Missouri.

Congressman Todd Akin's comments that women are able to prevent pregnancies in cases of what he called "legitimate rape" have generated statements of outrage from politicians in both parties, while gynecological experts call it a contradiction of "basic biological truths."

Speaking yesterday in Asbury Park, Gov. Christie said the congressman's remarks were "An absolutely asinine and ridiculous statement by the Congressman - it's reprehensible and he should be ashamed of himself."

At a White House news conference, President Barack Obama said distinguishing among types of rape "doesn't make sense" and Akin's comments underscore why male politicians should not make health decisions for women. Mitt Romney called Akin's remarks "offensive" in an interview with the National Review Online, while his campaign adds that the Republican presidential candidate "would not oppose abortion in instances of rape."

The GOP has long considered Missouri essential to winning control of the Senate. But an official with the GOP's Senate campaign committee says it has withdrawn $5 million in advertising planned for the race.