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Gov. Rauner Says NFL Protestors Are 'Insulting' Country

Carl Nelson
/
WNIJ

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner said athletes who protest during the National Anthem are insulting the country.

The governor's most recent financial disclosure shows he’s a part-owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bulls. During Monday's Bears game against the Steelers, most of Pittsburgh stayed off the field during the National Anthem.

Rauner said athletes who protest during the anthem are insulting the country and veterans.

"Part of that is freedom of speech and freedom of expression and people in America are free to be insulting," he said. "And I may not agree with them or like it, but that’s one of the freedoms and we need to defend our freedom."

Rauner did not address President Donald Trump’s comments that NFL team owners should fire players who disrespect the flag.