But while Moore has enjoyed loud shows of support, they have not come from all corners. The Alabama Republican Party itself has stayed silent, and the party’s steering committee has been embroiled in behind-the-scenes debate about what to do.

Some members are pushing for an emergency meeting and have started circulating a petition of support for Moore, according to one steering committee member. But not everyone on the 21-member committee has agreed to sign the document backing Moore.

A top aide to an Alabama member of Congress said the Moore campaign has been reaching out to the delegation, offering to connect members with Moore for reassurance that the story would blow over.