James Fishback's Florida Governor Ballot Eligibility Hearing Reviewed

A Leon County court hearing examined whether Republican James Fishback meets Florida’s seven‑year residency requirement for gubernatorial candidates. Judge David Frank presided over an eight‑hour session that included testimony from voter‑record experts, presentation of mortgage and tax documents, and challenges from both sides.

Fishback, who voted in Washington, D.C., and bought a condo there in 2020, is accused by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins of maintaining a principal residence outside Florida, which would disqualify him from the ballot. Collins filed a lawsuit alleging false statements on Fishback’s candidate oath. Fishback’s legal team, led by former state Rep. Anthony Sabatini, countered with evidence of a Florida home purchased in Madison County after 2022.

Judge Frank said a decision would be issued by the following Monday, calling the expedited process a “fire‑sale timeline.” The ruling will determine if Fishback remains on the ballot in the race led by Trump‑endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds.