A social media post warns five Harris-Walz supporters were swiped by a car while demonstrating Tuesday in Charlotte County.
That same post warned demonstrators in Lee County to be vigilant while demonstrating Friday along a busy U.S. Route 41 near the county election center.
A group of about 75 demonstrators came and went between 10 a.m. and noon and held signs in support of Amendment 4, which protects abortion rights and signs that supported the democratic ticket.
Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections Leah Valenti clarified a voter who tried to pull into a voting site there hit the gas rather than break and swiped five people holding Harris-Walz signs.
That incident prompted a social media post, warning demonstrators to keep their heads on a swivel after the incident. Valenti said the incident there on Tuesday was deemed an accident.
“Obviously, breathing a breath of fresh air that it was not malicious,” Valenti said.
Despite the mishap, demonstrators along US-41 in Lee County said they were not worried.
Julia Sher said she not only felt safe demonstrating along the roadside but felt empowered by the support drivers were showing while blowing their horns.
But it wasn't all pleasantries.
“We've gotten some middle fingers and some smiles,” noted Annie Neaf.
U.S. Senate candidate Debbi Mucarsel-Powell showed up and was overwhelmed by the turnout.
“Nothing is going to stop us from coming out and exercising the power and the right for us to lift up our voices,” Mucarsel-Powell said.
Democratic 19th District congressional candidate Kari Lerner warned against fearing to demonstrate.
“It's nice to see that people who have been fearful of expressing their support, they're coming out of that fear,” Lerner stated.
Cindy Fusch is voting for the first time in Lee County after moving from a small town in Illinois. She said she was not accustomed to lines or demonstrations. She was a little overwhelmed by it all.
“It was a little surprising to see all those people out there,” Fusch said.
Even those who didn't agree with the Harris Walz supporters said they believed they had the right to demonstrate without fear.
“I believe in freedom. They can do it. I wouldn't do it,” said Maria Terinoni, who identifies as an independent voter.
Voters who couldn’t make it to the polls this week can vote this weekend as polls are open Saturday and Sunday and through next Saturday, Nov. 2. The general election is on Nov. 5.