Coeur d’Alene, IDAHO – Lt. Governor Scott Bedke has issued the following statement regarding an incident of hate and racism in Coeur d’Alene involving the University of Utah women’s basketball program during the NCAA March Madness Tournament:

“I am disgusted and angry about the disturbing events in Coeur d’Alene that were directed against athletes, students, and visitors to our state. This foul incident caused by a few is inexcusable and does not in any way reflect Idaho’s shared values. Idaho does not tolerate racism, hate, or bigotry in any form.

I offer my full support to Governor Brad Little, Coeur d’Alene Mayor Jim Hammond, and our local leaders in their continuing efforts to eliminate hate, racism, and bigotry from our communities. We will not stand for discrimination.”