Republican Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch has apologized to her Democratic opponent for repeatedly claiming that he kneeled during the national anthem despite his denials.
Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Mandela Barnes has called the accusation a lie and said he’s never kneeled for the anthem.
Kleefisch tweeted two weeks ago and said again on Monday that someone had told her they saw Barnes kneel during opening ceremonies of the Wisconsin State Fair this summer. But she offered no proof.
Kleefisch on Tuesday said on WTMJ radio that in the face of Barnes’ repeated denials, “I have to believe him and I have to apologize for something I was told.”
Barnes did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Barnes on Monday called her claims “crazy.”
