16 Comments
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Judith Chapple's avatar

Josh Allen,

I am extremely saddened and disappointed by this article. Sean Hannity often says, “Legacy media is dead,” and until now, I never applied that statement to you or your reporting. But this piece has changed my view.

Taking a photo of two men in uniform—dressed and ready to protect and serve—and using it to fuel race-baiting and sow racial division in Clay County is shameful and sad. When I moved here from Duval County about 30 years ago, it was precisely for the peaceful harmony I’ve enjoyed ever since. Continuing to stir up and inflame racial tensions benefits neither our community nor our country. I can’t imagine that “clickbait” matters more to you than the well-being of the place we all call home.

Instead of trolling Robert Alvero in search of something negative, why not either leave him alone or simply report the positive fact that he is serving his country?

And for the record—for you and all the other trolls—I sent Robert the MLK quote on January 1, 2026, at 9:57 PM.

Don Bowman's avatar

Josh isn't a troll Judith, he's reporting on two public officials like any good reporter would and should do. Maybe Alvero isn't as tight with Rawson as that photo suggests, but dang, you aren't the least bit concerned about Klan apologists running for public office in Florida?

Peter Valentine's avatar

Did you read the article Judith? Rawson wants our country to fracture and be split into the old Mason Dixie line, as self professed on his own accounts. Alvero goes on FB Live, and tells his followers that 80% of African Americans "he has met" are bad people. This is verifiable information on their own social media posts, and no where does this article paint the service in a poor light. These men do.

You say we should ignore these things, and focus on the patriotism these two are promoting by wearing fatigues? Wild take on this haha

Joshua Allen's avatar

Hi Judith, thanks for your comments. I want you to know that I truly appreciate you taking the time to tell me your thoughts.

But I must say, the defense of Robert's comments by you and others makes me sad. Your refusal to hold a politician you like accountable reflects poorly on you, Tanya, Moms For Liberty, and the others who have defended him.

Clay News & Views exists for situations just like this one, because Republicans and Democrats refuse to hold their own accountable and bend over backwards to excuse the most heinous behaviors in their favorite candidates.

Marshall Rawson's views represent some of the worst ideologies that exist in our society today. I encourage you to look at the things he posted and tell me if you can support him or anyone who says that Rawson is a "good person."

Robert either knew who this guy was or didn't have the smarts to find out before posting a picture with him and tagging the campaign page. Alvero has no one to blame but himself. Blaming me and calling me a troll doesn't change that fact. Right is right, and telling the truth is most important when it is inconvenient for us.

I am not willing to trade my integrity to protect Robert Alvero. Clay News & Views will continue to tell the truth even when it hurts long into the future.

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

So now, Clay News and Views is locked except to paid subscribers?…..That’s laughable, but not actually funny. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t one. “Democracy dies in the dark” comes to mind “.

Joshua Allen's avatar

Hi Joann, none of our content is locked with exception of a paid subscribers chat.

Our paid subscribers generously help us pay for things like public records requests, which aren’t cheap.

All of our articles, videos and podcasts will be available to anyone.

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

I swear earlier on Substack, there was a lock next to it and I couldn’t get in. I guess I’m mistaken

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

None of this is making sense in the real world.When you’re sworn into the FL House, I believe u still swear or affirm(basically the same thing) to uphold the U.S. Constitution, and we know what the Constitution says about discrimination. If you “affirm” and don’t intend to uphold it, I think that’s still lying under oath, perhaps something for Rawson to know.

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

Does the Florida Guard actually allow its members to publicly promote the killing of LGBTQ people??? That goes wayyy past free speech. I thought there objective was to protect all citizens.

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

“their”, before anyone else points it out

JoAnn Duffy's avatar

This has become a test of who Clay County wants to be. Do we want to be viewed as just another section of the state that still yearns for the Confederacy, or do we believe all men are equal and have equal rights? Alvero is just taunting the School Board at this point.

Don Bowman's avatar

Exactly JoAnn, should we look to a better future or a not too great past?

Marcia's avatar

Josh - you are getting ridiculous. Do you have a secret crush on Alvero? Seriously you are becoming obsessed. Tell us, have you served in any military branch? Tell us about your military service. These posts and stories are getting petty.

Don Bowman's avatar

He's reporting the news of public officials Marcia, maybe you should be taking up their actions with them and who cares if Josh hasn't served in uniform, that is not a prerequisite of being a reporter or writer. As a veteran myself, too many people hide behind the flag and get angry when people call them out. Patriotism isn't just about serving the flag; it's about serving your country's ideals of liberty and having good people in public service.

Joshua Allen's avatar

No one is forcing you to read our stories, Marcia. Have a good day!