As part of a last-ditch effort by Democrats to win Alabama's US Senate seat in a special election, former President Barack Obama has told Alabama voters to reject Roy Moore, the Republican candidate dogged by sexual misconduct allegations.
Several women, including one who was 14 at the time, claim that Mr Moore sexually assaulted or had inappropriate contact with them decades ago. Mr Moore has vehemently denied the allegations.
Mr Obama recorded a phone message in recent days, according to CNN, in which he urges Alabamans to head to the polls on Tuesday.
Follow the latest live updates on the special election below
“This one’s serious. You can’t sit it out,” he says, referring to the election. Democratic candidate Doug Jones was out on the campaign trail over the weekend, appearing with prominent black politicians, including New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. “Doug Jones is a fighter for equality, for progress,” Mr Obama all says in the call, CNN reported.
“Doug will be our champion for justice. So get out and vote, Alabama.” Mr Obama is said not to have mentioned Mr Moore by name. The call marks Mr Obama's latest return to the political arena after having left office in January.
