Pennsylvania State Representative Aaron Bernstine is categorically denying allegations of a homophobic tirade at a Harrisburg bar.
Reports from PennLive say Bernstine used an anti-gay slur against Representative Malcolm Kenyatta and falsely attributed Kenyatta's weight loss to AIDS.
Bernstine has faced condemnation and calls for his resignation from Democrats and the House Black and LGBTQ Equality caucuses.
In a statement to KDKA Radio, Bernstine calls the claims a “political attack” orchestrated by a labor union.
Bernstine says the article posted by PennLive “omitted key details” about the encounter.
“During the encounter, statements directed at me included, ‘I know where you live,’ ‘I can’t wait to see you outside,’ and ‘I’ll kill you,’” Bernstine said. “Political disagreements never justify threats or intimidation. It’s a shame that they need to spread falsehoods to win hearts and minds.”
