A Florida woman named Selena Jo Chambers was arrested and charged with one count of misdemeanor battery and one felony count of battery on an elected official after allegedly throwing a drink at anti-LGBTQ+ congressman Matt Gaetz at the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival over the weekend. According to a report from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Gaetz claimed he was simply minding his own business when Chambers walked past him and hurled her drink, leaving him “soaked.” Chambers, however, had a different version of events, telling police that she “tripped and spilled her drink” while walking. Her attorney claimed that Gaetz was the aggressor in a verbal altercation and that he was looking forward to taking his deposition in the matter.
Gaetz addressed the incident on his podcast, “Firebrand,” saying that he and a friend were taking pictures and having polite conversations when Chambers threw a drink on both of them. He expressed concern about the potential escalation of such behavior and the risk of accidents. It is noteworthy that this concern comes from a lawmaker who supported the MAGA militia that stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, expressing concern over “stuff” being thrown or hurled leading to “escalation and accident.”
This is not the first time someone has thrown a drink at Gaetz. In 2019, a woman was sentenced to 15 days in prison for tossing a beverage on him as he left a campaign event in Pensacola. Matt Gaetz, who has a history of making derogatory comments about the LGBTQ+ community, plans to press charges against Chambers “in order to uphold the civility our community deserves.” Chambers has pleaded not guilty and has been released on bond, according to the court docket.
The incident highlights the contentious relationship between Gaetz and those who oppose his views on LGBTQ+ rights. Gaetz has previously voted against anti-discrimination legislation and has been accused of using anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric during his time in office. The incident also raises questions about the appropriate way to express dissent towards elected officials and highlights the importance of upholding civility in our communities.
In conclusion, the altercation between Selena Jo Chambers and Matt Gaetz at the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival underscores the need for civility in political discourse and the importance of respecting different viewpoints. The incident has sparked debate about the appropriate way to express dissent towards elected officials and highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.