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Alabama seniors say Roy Moore’s alleged actions were normal back then

Alabama Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore defied mounting calls to resign Wednesday as a fifth woman came forward with accusations of sexual harassment against him.

The allegations — including charges he pursued a relationship with and undressed a 14-year-old and sexually assaulted a 16-year-old — have upended what should’ve been an easily winnable race for the Republican. Leading party figures in Washington, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, have said they believe Moore’s accusers and called for him to drop out of the race. And recent polls have shown the race tightening, with at least one giving Democrat Doug Jones a lead.

But there’s still a good chance Moore could become the next senator from Alabama. While outside the state, the allegations have earned the candidate widespread condemnation, in Alabama, there’s more skepticism. Many Alabama residents say they don’t believe the accusers and are suspicious of the fact that the women waited so long to speak out against Moore.

And many older Alabamians say the things Moore’s been accused of were common for men decades ago — so they’re willing to cut him a break.

VICE News spoke to some of those older Alabamians at a senior center in Huntsville to see why they were still backing Roy Moore.