U.S. Rep. Todd Akin's comments on Sunday to FOX2's Charles Jaco suggesting that victims of "legitimate rape" have a built-in defense against pregancy have dominated the national political conversation in the past day and a half.

Patch readers have chimed in with a robust discussion over Akin's remarks on the first item we posted about the controversy — and discussion that's still running, so it's not too late to join in.

Here's a round-up of coverage from Patch editors — and Patch readers who have chimed in with blog posts in our Local Voices section. 

Should Akin Stay In The Senate Race? Poll Shows Division Among Missouri Republicans

While Republicans nationally question if Rep. Todd Akin's U.S. Senate campaign can survive, an unscientific poll of Missouri GOP insiders finds his controversial remarks about rape and pregnancy will hurt his standing with conservative voters.

McCaskill: Rape Comment 'Window Into Akin's Mind'

Claire McCaskill appeared on MSNBC Monday to discuss Todd Akin's comment on 'legitimate rape,' which she calls a 'gut-check' for Missourians.

Todd Akin Staying In The Senate Race Despite Rape Remark: 'I'm Not a Quitter'

The Wildwood Republican told Mike Huckabee's national radio program Monday afternoon he will not step down as the Missouri GOP's nominee despite firestorm over weekend comments about "legitimate rape."

Does 'Legitimate Rape' Really Inhibit Pregnancy?

U.S. Rep. Todd Akin's Sunday comments about "legitimate rape" prompt questions about definitions of rape—such as forcible/assault rape versus date rape and statutory rape—as well as whether females can get pregnant in all incidences of rape.

Planned Parenthood: "Akin Made Medically, Factually Inaccurate Statement About Pregnancies and Rape"

The leading provider, educator and protector for reproductive health care in the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri for 80 years issues a definite response to Todd Akin's Sunday comments about "legitimate" rape.

Rep. Todd Akin On Hot Seat Over 'Legitimate Rape' Comment in FOX2 Interview

In the interview with Charles Jaco, the Senate candidate said "legitimate rape" would not cause pregnancy. Late Sunday night, the Romney-Ryan campaign weighed in.

Akin's "Legitimate Rape" Idea Spurs Online Reactions Nationwide

In just a few hours, Todd Akin's comment drew angry, confused, stunned and downright funny reactions from comedians, actors and people across the country.

LOCAL VOICES: Blog posts by our readers

Karl Frank Jr.: Excuse Me Paul Ryan and Todd Akin, Was Josef Fritzl a Legitimate Rapist or an Illegitimate Rapist?

Unless you have the mindset of a stone age tool-maker, rape doesn't need a qualifier or new definition. Rape is rape. Period.

Mark Cockson: 'Legitimate Rape' Todd Akin Comment Rekindles Trail of Tears Pain

Representative Todd Akin's Sunday comment takes this blogger back to 175 year old bit of forgotten Missouri history.