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Palm Beach Today
By the People, for the People
Man Arrested After Scuffle at Trump Golf Club Protest
A 76-year-old Florida man faces battery charges following an altercation with a Trump supporter outside the president's golf course.
Published on Feb. 16, 2026
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A 76-year-old Lake Worth Beach-area man was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery after an altercation with a Trump supporter during competing protests outside Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The incident occurred as President Trump was playing golf at the course with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former college football coaches Urban Meyer and Nick Saban.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing political tensions and protests surrounding the Trump presidency, even after his re-election in 2024. It also raises questions about security and crowd control at the president's private properties, especially during events that draw opposing political factions.
The details
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, deputies saw Paul Messer, who was part of a "Not My President" protest against Trump's immigration policies, argue with a Trump supporter who complained that the protesters' signs were blocking her view. Authorities say they witnessed Messer "strike the female multiple times in the upper chest and neck area," causing her to stumble and sustain visible redness on her neck. Messer was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery. He was released on $1,000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on March 10.
- The incident occurred on February 15, 2026.
- Messer is scheduled to be arraigned on March 10, 2026.
The players
Paul Messer
A 76-year-old man from the Lake Worth Beach area of Florida who was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery following the altercation with a Trump supporter.
Donald Trump
The former president of the United States, who was playing golf at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida on the day of the incident.
Ron DeSantis
The current governor of Florida, who was playing golf with Trump at the time of the incident.
Urban Meyer
A former college football coach who was playing golf with Trump and DeSantis at the time of the incident.
Nick Saban
A former college football coach who was playing golf with Trump, DeSantis, and Meyer at the time of the incident.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
