Chaos erupts at Collier GOP meeting after gov. candidate is denied entry during Byron Donalds speech
COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —
A Collier County Republican Executive Committee meeting turned chaotic when gubernatorial candidate James Fishback was denied entry during congressman Byron Donalds’ speech, sparking physical altercations and shouting.
The disruption began as attendees called for Fishback to be allowed inside.
“Let Fishback in! Let him in,” attendees shouted.
Executive committee members rushed to block the doors, leading to pushing, shoving, and swearing.
“It was really just pure chaos,” said Renee Walsh, a Republican guest who recorded video of the incident.
Walsh described the scene as “a disgraceful display,” adding, “There was several Collier County sheriffs there. There was no need for the chairman, a vice chairman, and the treasurer to run out the door and start shoving people.”
Fishback, who was outside the meeting, warned others not to touch him.
“Don’t put your hands on me,” Fishback said.
Speaking about the incident, Fishback said, “It’s completely unbecoming and egregious to treat Republicans this way.”
When asked if his presence had caused the disruption, Fishback denied it, saying, “No, not at all. We were met immediately with hostility. We were met in the room for five seconds before my security was pushed and grabbed.”
Republican Jose Jarmarillo, who witnessed the confrontation, said this was not the first time he had seen such chaos at a meeting.
“This is the second time I’ve witnessed it, yes. This is not my first time,” Jarmarillo said, referencing a 2022 incident when Donalds restrained his then-political advisor Larry Wilcoxson during a fight at another Republican meeting.
“We don’t need chaos. We need to do business,” Jarmarillo added.
Many attendees suggested the confrontation could have been avoided if Donalds had agreed to debate Fishback.
Donalds responded to Gulf Coast News, saying, “I’m not afraid to debate anyone, sir, because he’s in single digits and he’s not real,” referring to Fishback.
Walsh said, “It was really a disgraceful display. I mean, we’re all Republicans.”
GOP candidates who are currently qualified for the Republican primary election on Aug. 18 include:
Jay CollinsByron DonaldsJames FishbackJim HolcombArthur Joseph McCaffreyDaniel NokovichPaul RennerRachel RodriguezJames W. ShawCaneste SucceBobby Williams
For a full list of gubernatorial candidates, click here.
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