Local Democratic Party leader alleged to have struck a man in the head during ‘No Kings’ protest

Democratic Party Chairman Arrested at Florida Protest

The chairman of the Democratic Party in Hernando County, Florida, has been arrested following an incident during a “No Kings” protest. Allegedly, 63-year-old Brian Stewart hit a man on the head with a bullhorn over the weekend.

After the confrontation, which took place on Saturday, Stewart was charged with simple battery and later booked into the Hernando County Jail, where he was released later the same day.

Deputies arrived at the scene, near the intersection of Mariner and Cortez Boulevards, around 10:30 a.m. Witnesses say Stewart struck Thomas Michta, a wounded veteran, in the head with the bullhorn. This event coincided with protests across the country against the Trump administration’s policies.

Michta reported that he had an argument with Stewart while walking through the protest when the alleged assault occurred.

In the arrest affidavit, Michta claimed he was punched during their exchange and noted a visible lump on his head that caused him pain. Authorities spoke with several witnesses who confirmed that they saw a physical altercation taking place during the protest.

Video footage reviewed by deputies captured Stewart hitting Michta with the bullhorn and pushing him in the chest, according to the affidavit. Based on the video, witness statements, and Stewart’s confession, officials believed there was enough evidence to charge him with causing physical harm.

In the wake of the incident, Stewart is set to appear in court on April 27th. The Florida Republican Party has called for his removal from his position over the protests inciting violence.

Florida Republican Party Chairman Evan Power stated, “Violence and political intimidation have no place in our state. Floridians deserve better than mere silence from Democratic Party leadership. Nikki Fried must immediately remove Brian Stewart from his position as leader of the Florida Democratic Party!”

Both the Florida Democratic Party and its Hernando County branch issued statements condemning the violence.

In a response, the Hernando County Democratic Party mentioned that Stewart’s actions were a reaction to provocations from local agitators, who reportedly threw drinks and shouted obscenities at protest participants.