Foes Admit Posting Signs That Allege Rep. Kolbe Has AIDS
Two political opponents of GOP Rep. Jim Kolbe have admitted posting signs that claim the openly gay congressman has AIDS, police say.
Kolbe called the signs a “venomous lie.”
Responding to a tip from a witness, police questioned Reform Party candidate Ed Finkelstein and Republican Joseph Sweeney but did not immediately charge them for posting signs around the city reading, “Kolbe: I have AIDS!”
The case was under investigation, police Sgt. Eugene Mejia said Wednesday, adding that the two men admitted posting the signs.
Finkelstein is running against Kolbe in Tuesday’s general election. Sweeney lost to Kolbe in the Sept. 10 primary. Kolbe also faces Democrat Mort Nelson, a businessman. Finkelstein and Sweeney are perennial unsuccessful candidates and have changed parties numerous times over the years.
Kolbe, who announced July 31 that he is gay, condemned the signs as an outrage and “venomous lie.” Supporters have been tearing down the small placards and bringing them to the congressman’s office, said Toni Hellon, Kolbe’s campaign manager.
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