Deny applicant due to attitude/inappropriate comments

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I worked through an application and was able to approve the applicant. As time has drawn near for move in, utilities have been a topic of conversation. During such - via text message ((in writing)) the applicant made a derogatory remark regarding the competence of the utility co rep and made other disparaging remarks about the process of obtaining utilities. 

I've been around the block enough timed to know someone who would say such things to their soon to be landlord, is likely not going to be a good renter. 

I'm here to entertain some advice on how to deny the already approved applicant. 

A lease has not been signed and I have $0 of the applicants. Should be simple enough to not proceed, however I'm unsure of how to now deny based on the comments made. 

Thoughts?