Florida GOP Candidate James Fishback Faces Legal Challenge Over Residency

Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins has filed a lawsuit seeking to remove Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback from the ballot, arguing that Fishback does not satisfy the state's seven‑year residency requirement. Public records show Fishback registered to vote in Washington, D.C., purchased a condo there in 2021 and claimed a D.C. homestead exemption, which Collins says proves his primary residence was outside Florida.

Fishback disputes the claim, posting his driver’s license to assert Florida residency since 2016 and describing the suit as a political tactic supporting Trump‑endorsed Byron Donalds, who leads in polls. The dispute comes amid Fishback’s controversial campaign, including racially charged remarks and a running‑mate who has been accused of using racist language. Collins warned that the lawsuit aims to prevent a potential Democratic win by David Jolly if the ballot is not corrected.

The case could reshape the Republican primary field and affect the August 18‑19 election for Florida’s governor.