LINCOLN — Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s office has addressed his recent tele-town hall comments that triggered criticism from disability advocates and families.

Last week, reporters tried to ask Pillen about his use of the term “libtards” three times during the tele-town hall, but a spokesperson stepped in before the governor could answer.

Pillen, through a statement on Wednesday, said that he has always supported “Nebraska’s developmentally disabled community.” The governor’s spokesperson pointed to him clearing the “long-stalled DD waitlist, speeding service access to Nebraska families who had waited for years, and substantially increased special education funding for our schools.”

“He is a fierce advocate for the inherent dignity and value of all people,” said Laura Strimple, Pillen’s communications director.

Strimple said the governor didn’t direct his comment to the developmentally disabled community or their families, “nor did the thought ever cross his mind.”

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