Voters in Fort Myers Beach are gearing up for a special recall election on Tuesday, focusing on Councilwoman Karen Woodson and Councilman John King. The election has sparked division and strong emotions throughout the island.

Councilwoman Karen Woodson shared her thoughts with WINK News just two days before the election.

“There is no if, ands or buts. I don’t think any council on the island has had to go through these kinds of times,” said Woodson.

She expressed feelings of both anxiety and hope as voters prepare to decide her future on the council.

“I want to finish out my term. We have things to do. We can’t let this stop us from the progress that we’ve made and the only way that’s going to happen is for people to get out and vote. Don’t think this is a slam dunk. Don’t think that this is something that, John’s got it, Karen’s got it. Don’t worry about it. No, every vote counts. You have to get out and vote,” said Woodson.

Proponents of the recall cite concerns over the Seagate vote, alleged Sunshine Law violations, and claims of unreported gifts. Woodson argues that these claims are based on misinformation and warns they could set a dangerous precedent.

“If this goes through, it could open fair game for every council member or congressional person anything just to call a recall with false allegations, no backup, no proof, and just because you don’t like a vote, and that just cannot happen in our democracy,” said Woodson.

Councilman John King, who is also targeted in the recall, will appear on the ballot, but a Lee County judge ruled there was insufficient evidence to move forward with his recall effort. In a written statement, King urged residents to vote against the recall.

“Vote no on the recall. It’s the only way to put an end to the weaponization of Florida’s flawed recall law. Send a message that deceit and division have no place on Fort Myers Beach,” said King.

The special recall election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Bay Oaks Recreation Center, the only polling location on Fort Myers Beach.