Florida Trump Supporter Sues Koch Group, Claims Supervisor Called Him “Slave”

A Florida resident and ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump, Carl Baxter, has filed a lawsuit against the conservative advocacy group Americans for Prosperity (AFP), claiming racial discrimination and retaliatory termination. Baxter, who is Black, alleges that during his brief 12-day tenure with the organization, he was subjected to derogatory treatment, including being called a “slave” by his supervisor after raising concerns about pay discrepancies and unethical practices. The lawsuit was filed on Monday and obtained by The Independent.

Background and Allegations

Carl Baxter, who serves as the president of the Republican Club of North & East Fort Myers, is a well-known figure in local Republican circles. His social media presence prominently features his enthusiastic support for Donald Trump, including participation in events like the “Trump Truck Parade” and various charity galas, where he is often seen sporting a red MAGA hat.

In June 2023, Baxter began working part-time as a “grassroots associate” for AFP, a conservative political organization established by the Koch brothers. His duties involved canvassing neighborhoods to promote AFP-endorsed policy issues. According to the lawsuit, Baxter’s job performance was described as “exemplary,” but his experience with AFP quickly soured due to alleged unethical conduct and discriminatory treatment.

Accusations of Bribery and Racism

The lawsuit alleges that shortly after starting his position, Baxter was approached by AFP’s Deputy Director of Grassroots, who offered him $500 to gather damaging information on Cape Coral councilmember Patty Cummings, a known Trump supporter. Baxter claims he refused the offer, which he believes was part of AFP’s broader effort to undermine Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.

Baxter also contends that AFP failed to compensate him fairly for his work, shortchanging him on both hours worked and mileage reimbursements. When he raised these concerns with his supervisor, Roxanne Buckels, AFP’s Grassroots Engagement Director, the response was both shocking and offensive. According to the lawsuit, Buckels, who is white, sarcastically referred to Baxter as a “slave” and asked, “Are you a slave?” during a discussion about his work performance and pay.

Retaliation and Termination

Deeply offended by Buckels’ comments, Baxter requested to speak with her supervisor. However, rather than addressing his concerns, AFP’s state operations director and another senior official allegedly terminated his employment without notice. Baxter claims that he has not been paid the wages or mileage reimbursements owed to him and that AFP treated its white employees more favorably.

The lawsuit accuses AFP of race discrimination, retaliation, and wage theft, seeking back pay, legal fees, and damages for Baxter’s emotional distress. His attorney, Jay Lechter, emphasized that Baxter is seeking justice and aims to prevent similar incidents from happening to others.

AFP’s Response

A spokesperson for AFP declined to comment on the ongoing litigation but stated that the organization takes all legal allegations seriously and will thoroughly investigate the claims. A source familiar with the situation suggested that Baxter was technically a contractor rather than a direct employee of AFP, which could complicate the case. Buckels has not responded to requests for comment.