Florida Gubernatorial Candidate Proposes Controversial Divorce Law Changes

James Fishback, a Republican candidate in Florida's gubernatorial race, has proposed significant changes to the state's divorce laws. During a recent campaign event, Fishback stated that individuals who commit adultery would lose full custody of their children and all claims to marital assets in the event of a divorce. He emphasized that his reforms would apply without exception to those found guilty of infidelity. “If you are an adulterer in our state and then there is a divorce, you as the adulterer, you as the cheater, will lose full custody and will lose full claims to any assets in that marriage,” Fishback asserted.

Newsweek

Fishback's remarks reflect his broader belief that divorce is a tragedy and that adultery is a moral failing. He expressed concern for those affected by divorce, citing his own experiences growing up in a two-parent household. “Divorce is wrong. Adultery is a moral sin,” he stated, reinforcing his stance on the issue.

Newsweek

Fishback is one of several candidates vying for the Republican nomination in the gubernatorial primary, which is scheduled for August 18, 2026. He is currently trailing behind frontrunner Byron Donalds, who leads with 37 percent in recent polls. Other candidates include Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins and former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner. Polling data from Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategies indicates Fishback has only 3 percent support among registered voters, while a survey by Patriot Polling shows him at 23 percent.

Newsweek

The political landscape in Florida has shifted significantly to the right in recent years, influenced by demographic changes and an influx of conservative voters. The state has become increasingly Republican, as evidenced by Donald Trump’s 13-point victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.

Newsweek

Fishback has articulated that his primary goal as a candidate is to improve the affordability of life in Florida, focusing on issues such as grocery prices, housing, and job availability. However, political analysts suggest that Fishback occupies a "fringe lane" in the race, primarily appealing to online audiences rather than mainstream voters. Ben Galbraith, a senior pollster at Victory Insights, noted that Donalds appears to have a clear path to victory, with Fishback and other candidates lacking significant traction.

Newsweek

Critics of Fishback's proposal argue that such punitive measures could exacerbate the challenges faced by families undergoing divorce. Concerns have been raised about the potential implications for children caught in custody disputes and the fairness of penalizing one partner for infidelity in such a manner.

Newsweek

As the Republican primary approaches, Fishback's controversial proposal is likely to continue generating discussion and debate within the party and among voters. The outcome of the primary will determine the candidates who will compete in the general election, where Republicans are currently favored to maintain control of the governorship in Florida.

Newsweek