Lawsuit Against Byron Donalds Raises Concerns in Florida Governor Race

NewsWK — A recent lawsuit filed by Kelly Mason, a member of the Collier County School Board, alleges that Byron Donalds, a leading candidate for the Republican nomination for governor, threatened and intimidated her during a confrontation at a Naples grocery store in August 2022. This incident was captured on video and later aired on a Fort Myers news station.

Mason, who was elected to her position in November 2022, claims that during the altercation at Seed to Table, Donalds confronted her regarding litigation involving himself and his wife, Erika Donalds. The lawsuit states that he “berated and insulted her” while allegedly threatening to “crush” or “finish” her. Furthermore, it alleges that Donalds’ senior adviser, Larry Wilcoxson, harassed Mason throughout the store, causing a public disturbance.

The lawsuit, which seeks compensatory and punitive damages as well as a jury trial, claims that Mason has suffered from emotional distress, anxiety, and fear for her and her children’s safety as a result of this encounter. It has been filed in the Collier County Circuit Court and is represented by Anthony Sabatini, a Lake County Commissioner and former state House member.

The Donalds campaign has dismissed the allegations, labeling the lawsuit as a politically motivated attack. Communications director Gates McGavick stated, “This is a baseless, politically motivated attack and shameful publicity stunt designed to damage Byron Donalds in the 2026 election.” He criticized the coverage of the lawsuit, suggesting that it is merely a reprint of sensationalist claims.

This legal battle arises as Florida Republicans prepare to vote for their gubernatorial nominee in the upcoming election, where Donalds has shown significant lead in both polling and fundraising efforts. The controversy also touches upon a previous lawsuit that Mason, under her married name Kelly Lichter, filed against Donalds and others concerning the management of the charter school she founded, Mason Classical Academy.

For residents of Pensacola and surrounding areas, this lawsuit could have implications for local political dynamics as the election approaches. Community members may wish to follow how these events unfold, especially given the importance of school choice and educational governance that resonates with many families in the region.