Controversy Surrounds James Fishback's Gubernatorial Campaign in Florida

James Fishback, a Republican candidate for governor of Florida, announced that his campaign has been banned from all Waffle House locations in the state. This decision came after Fishback had previously planned a statewide tour to connect with voters at the popular diner chain, which he had touted during an appearance on *The Tucker Carlson Show* in January. Fishback expressed disappointment over the abrupt revocation of permission, stating, “This morning, Waffle House abruptly revoked our permission, and criminally trespassed us from all of their Florida locations.” He claimed that he had received explicit permission from Waffle House just three weeks prior to the ban.

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Following the ban, Fishback claimed that IHOP had invited him to campaign at their restaurants, sharing a message he alleged was from the chain’s corporate account. However, an IHOP spokesperson denied the authenticity of the message, stating, “We are not working with James Fishback or his campaign in any capacity.” The spokesperson emphasized that IHOP is committed to providing welcoming dining experiences for all guests.

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Fishback, 31, is a controversial figure in the gubernatorial race, known for his far-right views and inflammatory rhetoric. He has faced backlash for his comments regarding systemic racism, which he claims only affects white Christian men, and has made derogatory remarks about his primary opponent, U.S. Representative Byron Donalds, who is Black. Fishback referred to Donalds in racially charged terms, prompting criticism from fellow candidates and political commentators. David Jolly, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate, condemned Fishback's comments as “deliberate, offensive, and beneath this state.”

The Independent

Fishback's campaign has been marred by various scandals, including allegations of inappropriate conduct with an underage girl, which led to a local school district severing ties with him. He has also been linked to far-right influencers and has made statements that many consider racist or inflammatory. His campaign proposals include extreme measures such as banning immigrant visa programs and abolishing abortion nationwide.

Newsweek

In response to the ban from Waffle House, Fishback stated, “Waffle House can revoke our permission, but they can't stop our motion.” He announced plans to launch a "no-cost pop-up restaurant" called the "Fishback Waffle Home" to continue engaging with voters. Meanwhile, Waffle House has not publicly commented on the specifics of the ban.

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As Fishback's campaign continues to face scrutiny, he will compete in the Republican primary scheduled for August 18, with the general election set for November 3. His controversial statements and actions may significantly impact his chances against more established candidates like Byron Donalds and Casey DeSantis, the wife of the current governor, Ron DeSantis.

Mediaite

• “In January, I announced on The Tucker Carlson Show that I would visit every Waffle House in Florida to meet voters where they are. I was grateful that Waffle House Corporate gave us permission to do exactly that. This morning, Waffle House abruptly revoked our permission, and criminally trespassed us from all of their Florida locations.” — James Fishback, Florida gubernatorial candidate

Newsweek

• “We are not working with James Fishback or his campaign in any capacity,” the spokesperson said in a statement.” — IHOP spokesperson

The Independent

• “His undisguised racist comments describing a Black candidate’s vision as ‘Section 8 ghetto’ and referring to Byron Donalds as ‘By’rone’ and a ‘slave’ are deliberate, offensive, and beneath this state,” — David Jolly, Democratic gubernatorial candidate

The Independent