Republican vice presidential nominee Mike Pence is asking Americans to forgive running mate Donald Trump after a leaked video surfaced showing the business magnate making lewd comments on women.
"As Christians we are called to forgive, even as we've been forgiven," Pence said during his speech at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, according to USA Today. "Last Sunday night, my running mate showed humility. He showed what was in his heart to the American people."
Pence was referring to Trump's comments during the presidential debate. The presidential hopeful, who has been criticised as arrogant and disrespectful, admitted that he was "not proud" of the controversial comments.
"I apologise to my family, I apologise to the American people," he said, adding that he was "embarrassed" that his "locker room talk" surfaced.
However, critics accused Trump of minimising the content of the video, where he boasted about kissing, groping and trying to have sex with women.
As for Pence, he said in a statement that he could "not condone [Trump's] remarks and cannot defend them." However, the vice presidential bet believes it is only right for people to forgive those who have shown true remorse over their past sins. He even lauded Trump for being a leader who "never quits" and "literally embodies the spirit of America."
"In this time of condescension and, at times, overt hostility to people of faith, we fall into the temptation to recoil and retreat," Pence said. "But the stakes are too high."
"If we were perfect, we wouldn't need Jesus," he added. "But we are far from perfect. We do need Him. But God's love eclipses our failings, and, as always, renewed the strength of so many in this nation."
Meanwhile, Liberty President Jerry Falwell, a long-time supporter of Trump, said he is deeply impressed by the vice presidential candidate. He added that this is a crucial "time for faith" and "a time for action," so Christians need to unite for the future of America.
