James Fishback Retracts Federal Investigation Allegations Against Florida Congressmen

In early August, political activist James Fishback claimed that Representatives Byron Donalds and Cory Mills were the subject of a federal investigation. He said the alleged probe concerned travel to the MGM National Harbor resort in Maryland on two dates—May 17 and November 19. After speaking with his priest and going to confession, Fishback posted a public apology on X, stating that he had “made a terrible mistake” and that he now accepts the Justice Department’s statement that neither lawmaker is under investigation.

Newsweek

Fishback’s allegation emerged during the Republican primary for Florida’s 2024 gubernatorial race, in which he and Donalds were rivals. Donalds won the primary on August 18, securing 47.8 % of the vote, while Fishback finished third with 10.5 %. The claim also referenced a separate, earlier media report that suggested a Justice Department inquiry into Mills’s finances, though that report did not substantiate any sex-trafficking allegation.

Newsweek

The Justice Department issued a public response in August confirming that Representative Donalds is not under investigation; a law-enforcement official told Newsweek the allegation against Donalds was “absolutely false.” The department’s statement did not mention Mills. Mills’s office said he was unaware of any DOJ investigation. Separately, the House Ethics Committee is conducting its own inquiry into allegations involving Mills, a process that does not constitute a finding of wrongdoing.

Newsweek

• Alleged investigation dates: May 17 (occurred) and November 19 (scheduled).

Newsweek

• Primary results (August 18): Donalds 47.8 %; Fishback 10.5 %; Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins 25.2 %.

Newsweek

• “My legal team has spent weeks attempting to independently verify this investigation, and we have done just that,” — James Fishback

Newsweek

• “Let me be crystal clear: Our Constitution entitles Congressmen Mills and Donalds to the presumption of innocence,” — James Fishback

Newsweek

• “This is the first and last time I will discuss this publicly,” — James Fishback

Newsweek