Republican Charlie Baker is apologizing for calling a Fox 25 reporter "sweetheart" Tuesday as political opponents pounced on the Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate's comment as the latest example of his dismissive attitude toward women and women's issues, the State House News Service reported.
Baker reportedly addressed his comment at a forum at Faneuil Hall Wednesday, saying he had already called the Fox 25 reporter with an apology.
"My comment was a mistake and certainly doesn't represent my work, attitudes or what I'm all about," Baker said.
His campaign declined to comment further Wednesday.
NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts joined top female Democrats, saying Baker's comment is the latest in a string of comments showing the candidate is "out of touch" with women's issues.
"Women represent a vital voting block, and they expect more from their candidates for governor," NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts Executive Director Megan Amundson said. "They expect candidates to stand with them on issues as core to their well-being as violence in the home and access to health care."
Tuesday, Fox 25 reporter Sharman Sacchetti asked the GOP candidate about the possibility of a more negative tone after his camp switched ad agencies.
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"OK, this is going to be the last one, sweetheart," Baker said.
Stay with NECN as this story develops.
