Florida Republican Representative Randy Fine has sparked significant backlash following a controversial post on social media platform X. In the tweet, Fine suggested a preference for dogs over Muslims, stating, “If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one.” This statement has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, including calls for his censure.
The incident occurred on April 1, 2025, as Fine responded to a tweet from Nerdeen Kiswani, a member of a Muslim group that supported New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. In his post, Fine criticized Kiswani’s views, asserting that dogs have a rightful place in society, but implying that Muslims do not. He further remarked, “Finally, NYC is coming to Islam. Dogs definitely have a place in society, just not as indoor pets. Like we’ve said all along, they are unclean.”
The backlash was swift, with many social media users and public figures labeling Fine’s comments as “disgusting bigotry.” Critics emphasized the importance of morality and decency, urging that his remarks were unacceptable regardless of political affiliation. Among those responding was California Governor Gavin Newsom, who demanded Fine’s resignation, calling him a “racist slob.”
Fine’s reaction to the criticism included sharing a picture of a dog with the phrase “Don’t Tread On Me.” He appeared unfazed by the outcry, expressing a desire to engage in further debate over his statements. “You really want to make common cause with those who want to ban Americans from having dogs? I look forward to the debate. Bring it,” he stated.
Representative Fine, elected in a special election in 2025 to represent Florida’s 6th Congressional District, has positioned himself as a polarizing figure in state politics. His recent comments have not only prompted public outrage but have also raised questions about the political climate in Florida and its broader implications.
As communities grapple with issues of inclusivity and respect, Fine’s remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding race and religion in American society. The need for leaders to foster unity rather than division has never been more pressing, especially as the nation approaches critical electoral moments.