LITHIA, Fla. — A 71-year-old man is behind bars after deputies say he assaulted two women Tuesday afternoon in Lithia following an argument about politics.

Around 12:30 a.m. on Nov. 5, authorities arrived at the corner of Fishhawk Crossing Boulevard and Dorman Road after receiving a report of a fight. The location is also down the street from the Palmetto Club at the Fishhawk Farm polling place.

After investigating, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) said Stuart McMillan and two women had a disagreement over political candidates. The argument then escalated and McMillan began attacking the two women.

HCSO said the 71-year-old man knocked down one of the women’s flags, then grabbed her by the hair and throat. Other women intervened after trying to help, but McMillan attacked her and grabbed her by the throat as well.

Deputies said they were able to arrest McMillan and charge him with two counts of battery.

“Our community is built on respect and understanding, even when opinions differ.“ Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Violence has no place in our society, and we will hold accountable anyone who disrupts the safety and civility of our neighborhoods in Hillsborough County.”