Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan today issued a statement saying the state party supports former Chief Justice Roy Moore and trusts voters to make the "ultimate decision" in the Dec. 12 U.S. Senate election.

The statement came after the 21-member the Alabama Republican Party Steering Committee met in Hoover Wednesday to discuss the allegations made against Moore.

"The ALGOP Steering Committee supports Judge Roy Moore as our nominee and trusts the voters as they make the ultimate decision in this crucial race," Lathan's statement read. "Alabamians will be the ultimate jury in this election- not the media or those from afar."

The state party had been largely silent on the issue, even as prominent members of the national party, like Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, called on Moore to step aside.

Lathan had previously warned party officials and candidates against endorsing someone other than Moore.

"It would be a serious error for any current elected GOP official or candidate to publicly endorse another party's candidate, an independent, a third party or a write in candidate in a general election as well," Lathan told Alabama Political Reporter. "I have heard of no GOP elected official or candidate that is even considering this option."

Thursday's statement continues:

"Judge Moore has vehemently denied the allegations made against him. He deserves to be presumed innocent of the accusations unless proven otherwise. He will continue to take his case straight to the people of Alabama."

"There is a sharp policy contrast between Judge Moore, a conservative Republican who supports President Trump, and the liberal Democrat who will fight and thwart the agenda of our president. We trust the Alabama voters in this election to have our beloved state and nation's best interest at heart....

"We are very grateful for the multitudes that have reached out to us with support and prayers. We ask God to guide us, politically and personally, with His mighty strength and wisdom. In turn, we also pray that justice and truth will prevail for all involved in this situation."