Instead of pushing gently tug/pull the center leaves, if the leaves detach easily then it's rot. Ionantha is not prone to rot unless watered almost daily.

Ok I did that, there not budging. any diseases that this could be or anything?

Without the plant in hand it would be hard to diagnose the problem. Personally? I would return the plant for a substitute.

alright so I decided to keep it. in 2 weeks i noticed the central red leaves were pulling out with a little tug. then i pulled out a large dead mass in the middle. possibly an old flower? So no theres a a hole in the middle of it about a a quarter inch diameter. What should I do? Fertilize it with a mister? I have no idea.

Your plant rotted in the center. Gently tug out as many leaves that give easily. Do not water or mist for a week -10 days. Position the plant so that it is pointing at a downward angle then you can continue with a misting once or twice a week. No food necessary right now. Pups will form at the base that will eventually take over. Never accept a plant like that again.

ok thanks gonzer. i wouldnt usually accept a plant like this, but I didnt notice this problem for like a week, and i got it off ebay, so It wouldnt be a bit complicated

No problem semaje. There are two large sellers of Tillandsias on the Bay that would have no problem accepting a return. They would probably throw in a free extra plant just to keep you as a customer. Very good folks.