Florida GOP Governor Race Erupts After Comment Draws Racism Backlash

The Republican primary for Florida governor took a contentious turn over the weekend after insurgent candidate James Fishback drew widespread criticism for a social media post targeting rival Rep. Byron Donalds, sparking backlash and renewed scrutiny of Fishback’s conduct.

The controversy began after a social media user posted side-by-side photos of Donalds with his wife and Fishback with a woman, using internet slang to suggest one man had mogged, or “outclassed” the other. The term, commonly used online to compare physical appearance, was defined by Merriam-Webster as slang meaning “to outclass,” in this case, referring to the perceived attractiveness of the women in the user’s eyes.

Fishback responded by quote-tweeting the post and mocking the front-runner’s name before writing, “By’rone wants to turn Florida into a Section 8 ghetto.” The remark was immediately condemned as a dog whistle aimed at Donalds, who is Black.

President Donald Trump endorsed Donalds in February, praising him as a “TOTAL WINNER” and highlighting his family and conservative record. Trump said Donalds would be a strong ally in advancing an America First agenda as governor.

Fishback has recently gained increased attention within conservative media circles. Tucker Carlson endorsed him during an appearance on his podcast, calling Fishback a representative of the Republican Party’s future. Fishback’s campaign has also drawn attention for its opposition to Israel, a position that has divided Republican voters and attracted support from some younger voters.

Separately, Fishback has faced renewed scrutiny over allegations raised by his former fiancée, Keniah Fort. According to reporting by Florida’s Voice, Fort alleged she joined Fishback’s organization in 2021 at age 16 and that a romantic relationship developed while she was still a minor. Fort claimed Fishback told her to keep the relationship secret.

Fort further alleged that the relationship escalated over time and that by 2023, the two were living together, during which she said she became financially dependent on Fishback. Court filings cited by Florida’s Voice described claims of repeated conflicts, including allegations of verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and manipulation.

Fishback has denied the allegations, telling Florida’s Voice that he was exonerated following review by Florida’s Second Judicial Circuit. He said he was never arrested or charged with a crime.

The conservative publication continues:

The court ultimately denied Fort’s petition for protection in June 2025, noting that Fishback may have been “a little obsessive-compulsive” but did not initiate contact “directly or indirectly with no legitimate purpose.”

Fishback issued an on-the-record statement to Florida’s Voice:

“False accusations are sadly all too common today. The court in Florida’s Second Judicial Circuit reviewed these egregious accusations, conducted two lengthy hearings, and fully exonerated me. I have never been arrested or charged with any crime unlike my opponent Byron Donalds.”

Fort is now an adult and the allegations in the court documents were made while she was an adult. The public records highlight the age difference and alleged secrecy during the initial phase of the relationship. When Florida’s Voice pressed Fishback for a statement regarding the relationship with a minor, he would not provide additional comment beyond the statement above.

Donalds continues to campaign with Trump’s endorsement and strong support among Republican voters. As the primary intensifies, Fishback’s remarks and past controversies are expected to remain a focal point in the race.

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