A routine Saline County Republican Committee meeting in Benton, Arkansas, took a shocking turn on Thursday night, as tensions escalated into violence between two members. The incident, captured on video, involved 62-year-old Jimmie Cavin sucker-punching Johnathan Newcomb following a heated exchange of words. According to Jimmie Cavin, the altercation began when Newcomb allegedly made offensive remarks towards Kandi Cox, a well-known local figure, during the meeting.
Jimmie Cavin claims that Newcomb, described as much larger and younger, heckled and harassed Cox as she took to the microphone, even going as far as shouting, “Go polish your nose ring.” Cavin, fearing for Cox’s safety, reportedly intervened in an attempt to defuse the situation. However, the tension only grew, culminating in a physical confrontation when Newcomb allegedly advanced towards Cavin, prompting him to throw a punch in what he says was self-defense.
Jimmie Cavin Defends Actions, Claims Self-Defense Against ‘Massive’ Newcomb
Jimmie Cavin, who stands at 5’9″ and weighs 195 pounds, has since defended his actions, stating he acted in self-defense against the much larger Newcomb, who he describes as a “massive man,” easily 6’5″ and weighing over 350 pounds. According to Jimmie Cavin, Newcomb’s aggressive behavior toward Cox, including flipping her off and making derogatory remarks about her appearance, created an unsafe environment for those present.
Jimmie Cavin shared on social media that he felt it was necessary to intervene when Newcomb began staring at Cox in an intimidating manner. Jimmie Cavin tried to draw Newcomb’s attention away from Cox, but the situation escalated when Newcomb allegedly confronted him, asking, “What are you gonna do, boy?” Fearing for his safety and that of others, Jimmie Cavin stated he had no choice but to defend himself, ultimately leaving Newcomb bleeding after the punch.
Witnesses Support Jimmie Cavin, No Charges Filed Yet
Several witnesses at the meeting corroborated Cavin’s account, stating they too felt threatened by Newcomb’s behavior. Video footage captured the moment Cavin took a defensive stance, warning Newcomb to back off before throwing the punch when Newcomb continued to Jimmie Cavin has since emphasized that he does not condone violence but believes it was a necessary last resort in this instance.
The woman at the center of the confrontation, Kandi Cox, later took to social media to thank Cavin for coming to her defense. As of now, no charges have been filed in connection to the incident, though it remains a topic of discussion within the local GOP community. The video, shared by Kenny Wallis, continues to circulate, sparking debate about the rising tensions within political meetings.
Statements from Both Sides and Future Implications
In the aftermath of the altercation, both Jimmie Cavin and Newcomb released public statements reflecting their perspectives on the incident. Newcomb, who described Jimmie Cavin’s actions as “unprovoked and crazed,” emphasized that he did not pose any threat during the meeting. “As anyone who watches the video on YouTube can see, I never raised my hands and presented no threat whatsoever,” Newcomb wrote. He called for law enforcement and the county prosecutor to take action against what he described as “vicious violence.”
Cavin’s attorney, Clint Lancaster, aligned with Brumley’s call for committee reform, signaling a broader push for change within the local Republican leadership. The Saline County Republican Committee also condemned the violence in a statement, asserting that such behavior would not be tolerated. As the investigation continues, it remains unclear whether charges will be filed, but the event has already cast a shadow over the political landscape in Saline County, with many calling for accountability and greater civility moving forward.
