NY Democratic Candidate in Bathroom Brawl with Opponent's Mother
Kisha Skipper was detained by police after a physical altercation at a Yonkers candidates forum.
A candidates forum in Yonkers took a contentious turn Wednesday night when Democratic legislative candidate Kisha Skipper allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with the mother of her Republican opponent, Westchester County Legislator James Nolan.
Skipper, who is challenging Nolan for his county legislative seat, was handcuffed and detained by police following the incident at the Beczak Environmental Center. According to reports from local outlet Black Westchester, the confrontation began in the women's restroom during a break in the forum.
Video footage circulating on social media shows multiple women in a heated confrontation near the restroom entrance, with other attendees attempting to intervene and separate the individuals.
James Nolan addressed the incident on Instagram, stating, "There is absolutely no justification for violence. Anyone seeking public office is expected to demonstrate sound judgment, self-control, and the ability to handle confrontation without resorting to physical aggression. These standards are not optional. This is a clear example of why she is not fit to serve public office."
Skipper, appearing in a sling outside an emergency room entrance in a Facebook video, addressed the situation, stating, "No, I was not arrested. Yes, I was detained pending an investigation. Of course, I was released, and there will be more information forthcoming."
Reports suggest the altercation escalated after Skipper was questioned about campaign donations during the forum and subsequently took a break, with Donna Nolan, the opponent's mother, and another woman reportedly following her into the restroom.
Donna Nolan was transported to the hospital by ambulance, though details regarding any injuries she may have sustained were not immediately available. Yonkers police have not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.