A weekend protest in Florida took a chaotic turn when the chair of the Hernando County Democratic Party was arrested following a heated confrontation with pro-Trump counter protesters.
The incident unfolded at a busy intersection in Spring Hill during a “No Kings” rally, where tensions quickly escalated between demonstrators and a group of counter protesters who showed up to challenge them. Video from the scene captures shouting, confusion, and a noisy standoff that spiraled out of control.
Authorities say Democratic Party chair Brian Stewart struck a counter protester with a bullhorn during the clash. According to reports, the situation intensified as both sides yelled over each other, with counter protesters blaring a siren and attempting to disrupt the rally.
Stewart claims the altercation began after a protester poured liquid into his megaphone, prompting him to react. Meanwhile, the Florida GOP has offered a sharply different account, alleging Stewart assaulted a disabled veteran.
Deputies responding to the scene quickly detained Stewart, placing him in handcuffs and charging him with simple battery. The incident has since sparked competing narratives about who instigated the confrontation — and whether the rally was deliberately targeted for disruption.
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