Man Removed From Escambia County Commission Meeting After Racist Remarks Toward Black Commissioner

Pensacola, Florida (BuzzReport) – What began as a routine public meeting of the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners took an abrupt and controversial turn Thursday when a local resident was removed after making remarks deemed racist toward a sitting commissioner.

Andrew Blewer, a white resident of Bellview, signed up to address the board regarding a proposed $359,670 grant tied to the Pensacola Bay Living Shoreline Project, a multi-phase environmental initiative planned for the Lower Pensacola Bay System. During his public comments, Blewer referenced the race of neighbors in his community and directed his remarks toward District 1 Commissioner Lumon May, who represents the Bellview area.

The comments immediately drew concern from board members and the audience. Board Chair Ashlee Hofbergerinterrupted Blewer and warned that racist language would not be tolerated during the meeting, questioning the relevance of race to the issue before the commission. Despite the warning, Blewer continued, escalating tensions inside the chamber.

Commissioner May responded by attempting to redirect the exchange, noting that public comment time was nearly expired and urging Blewer to refrain from personal references. The situation further deteriorated when Blewer made an additional remark that prompted audible reactions from the audience.

At that point, Chair Hofberger instructed deputies to remove Blewer from the meeting and requested staff review options to prevent similar disruptions in the future. The decision was met with applause from attendees. Commissioner Steven Barry publicly supported the action, stating the board is not required to endure racist or sexist commentary during official proceedings.

Following Blewer’s removal, the commission resumed its agenda. Commissioner May later attempted to defuse the moment with humor, drawing brief laughter from the chamber before business continued.

Public comment periods are intended to allow residents to address government matters, not to serve as platforms for personal attacks or discriminatory speech. As of Thursday, Escambia County officials have not announced whether Blewer will face formal penalties or restrictions from future meetings, nor whether new measures will be implemented to address similar conduct going forward.

The incident comes amid broader concerns nationwide about an apparent rise in openly expressed racist rhetoric at public forums. Local leaders emphasized that county meetings must remain spaces of professionalism, respect, and civic engagement.

As Escambia County continues its work on community development and environmental restoration projects, officials reiterated that unity and constructive dialogue—not hate or division—must guide public participation.