Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl weighed in on Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-Ala.) comments about crime and reparations during Saturday’s Save America rally in Nevada, commending Tuberville’s character.

“I did not watch the rally, so I don’t know the exact context of Senator Tuberville’s remarks. However, Coach Tuberville is well known for his work with people of all backgrounds, both on the field and off,” Wahl said. “His record and respect of others speaks volumes about his integrity and character.”

Saturday, Tuberville said Democrats aren’t “soft on crime, they want crime,” before adding that “they” believe people who commit crimes are owed reparation.

Tuberville’s office has not responded to multiple requests for comment to clarify his comment or explain what he meant.

Wahl is the first Alabama politician to offer AL.com a statement of support toward Tuberville following the comments.

Former Sen. Doug Jones called the speech a “racist rant” and ignorant.

Activist Rev. AL Sharpton called Tuberville’s statements “patently racist.”

Rep. Don Bacon, R-Nebraska, said while he wouldn’t have said “it the same way,” a politician should be “honest that we have a crime problem in our country.”

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Opinion: Former Auburn star on Tuberville’s ‘reparation’ remark: ‘Unnecessary, dead wrong, ugly’