Newsom Calls for Resignation of Rep. Randy Fine Over Controversial Comments

California Governor Gavin Newsom has demanded the resignation of Florida Representative Randy Fine following Fine's inflammatory comments regarding Muslims. On February 15, 2026, Fine posted on X, stating, "If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one." This remark was made in response to a post by Nerdeen Kiswani, a pro-Palestinian activist, who had jokingly commented on the cleanliness of dogs in New York City. Newsom's response was swift and direct: "Resign now, you racist slob."

Daytona Beach News-Journal

Randy Fine, a Republican representing Florida's 6th District, has a history of making derogatory comments about Muslims. He has previously called for the deportation of "mainstream Muslims" and has described them as a threat to society. In December 2025, he suggested that "mainstream Muslims have declared war on us" and advocated for a Muslim travel ban. His remarks have drawn condemnation from various groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which has highlighted the rise of anti-Muslim discrimination in recent years.

Newsweek

In addition to Newsom, several lawmakers from both parties have condemned Fine's comments. Democratic Representative Yassamin Ansari stated that such remarks would lead to immediate termination in any workplace, urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to reprimand Fine. Other politicians, including Democratic Representatives Brendan Boyle and Ro Khanna, have labeled Fine as a "bigot" and called for censure. Fine, however, has defended his statements, asserting that he is "not afraid" of being labeled Islamophobic.

Latin Times

The backlash against Fine's comments has been widespread. Activist Nerdeen Kiswani responded to Fine's post by highlighting the absurdity of his statement, arguing that it reflects a broader trend of Islamophobia. Cameron Kasky, a Jewish activist, drew parallels to anti-Semitic remarks, questioning the acceptability of such rhetoric in American politics. Conservative attorney Marina Medvin defended Fine, suggesting that the criticism stems from a misunderstanding of the context surrounding Kiswani's original joke.

Newsweek

The political fallout from Fine's comments continues to evolve, with calls for his resignation gaining traction. Candidates challenging Fine in upcoming elections have seized upon the controversy to bolster their campaigns, with some claiming that Fine's rhetoric is damaging to the community. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether Fine will face formal censure or other consequences from congressional leadership.

Daytona Beach News-Journal

• “Resign now, you racist slob.” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

Newsweek

• “Randy Fine is an ugly bigot. He should not be in Congress.” — Brendan Boyle, U.S. Representative

Newsweek

• “if anyone said something this vile in any workplace, they'd be fired.” — Yassamin Ansari, U.S. Representative

Latin Times

• “What People Are Saying Activist Nerdeen Kiswani responded to Representative Randy Fine's post on Sunday, writing on X: "Randy fine posted this genocidal statement about me.” — Nerdeen Kiswani, Activist

Newsweek

• “Diversity is not our strength. Diversity has become suicidal. It is time for a Muslim travel ban, radical deportations of all mainstream Muslim legal and illegal immigrants, and citizenship revocations wherever possible. Mainstream Muslims have declared war on us. The least we can do is kick them the hell out of America.” — Randy Fine, U.S. Representative

Newsweek

This incident underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding discussions of race, religion, and political rhetoric in the United States, highlighting the need for accountability among public officials.

Latin Times