Carl Baxter, a staunch supporter of Donald Trump and president of the Republican Club of North & East Fort Myers, is taking legal action against Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a conservative nonprofit founded by the Koch Brothers. Baxter alleges that he faced racial discrimination and was unjustly terminated after raising concerns about his mistreatment.
Baxter, who is Black, joined AFP in June 2023 as a part-time “grassroots associate.” His job entailed canvassing neighborhoods to promote AFP’s policy positions and managing related tasks. Despite his enthusiasm and exemplary work, his experience with AFP lasted only 12 days.
The lawsuit details an alarming incident where, during a discussion about his work and payment issues, AFP’s Deputy Director of Grassroots, Roxanne Buckels, allegedly called Baxter a “slave” in a derogatory manner. This incident occurred after Baxter had expressed dissatisfaction with his compensation and the hours he was working.
The lawsuit claims that Buckels, who is white, used the term “slave” in a derogatory tone, stating: “I know you are doing the work and I can see the doors that you are hitting on my iPad on my side. At least you are working as a slave but at least you are getting paid, many slaves today do get paid, many used to never get paid. Are you a slave?”
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This racial slur was reportedly followed by Baxter’s immediate termination from the organization after Baxter said he felt “offended” and “demanded to speak with Ms. Buckels’ supervisor.”
The legal complaint also accuses AFP of not paying Baxter for his work or reimbursing him for mileage, while white employees allegedly received their full compensation. The lawsuit seeks damages for racial discrimination, retaliation, and wage theft, along with back pay, legal fees, and compensation for emotional distress.
AFP, known for its conservative stances and efforts to undermine worker rights and environmental protections, has a track record of controversial practices. Given the organization’s history and its alignment with right-wing values, Baxter’s experience should come as no surprise to those familiar with AFP’s reputation.
AFP has stated that they do not comment on ongoing litigation but assured that they take all legal allegations seriously and will investigate the claims thoroughly. Baxter’s attorney, Jay Lechter, emphasized that the goal of the lawsuit is to secure justice for Baxter and to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
