Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore Wednesday blasted NFL players who refuse to stand for the National Anthem. Moore issued the following statement:
"As a West Point graduate and Vietnam veteran, I know what it means to stand for our flag, defend our country and advance the freedoms America represents around the world.
"Kneeling during our national anthem not only demonstrates a lack of patriotism for our country but a disrespect for the rule of law. Title 36 of the United States Code, Section 301 states that all persons present during the National Anthem 'should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart'.
"I fully support President Trump and Vice President Pence in asking all Americans to stand for our flag during the playing of our national anthem out of respect for our laws and all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country."
Moore's opponent, Democrat Doug Jones, indicated that he supports the protests, in a Twitter message from Sept. 26:
"I want to be crystal clear here, I support the right to protest, & freedom of expression. #TakeAKnee focuses on inequality & injustice."