Judge Rules James Fishback Remains on Florida Primary Ballot Amid Residency Challenge
A Leon County judge has ruled that Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback will remain on Florida's primary ballot after rejecting a residency challenge filed by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins. The judge found insufficient evidence that Fishback intended to abandon his…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, July 27, 2026 —
A Leon County judge has ruled that Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback will remain on Florida’s primary ballot, dismissing a residency challenge brought forth by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins.
The ruling came after an examination of evidence that included records indicating Fishback voted and filed taxes in Washington D.C. during the years 2019 through 2022. Despite these records, the judge concluded there was insufficient evidence to demonstrate that Fishback intended to abandon his domicile in Florida.
The legal challenge questioned Fishback’s eligibility to appear on the Florida primary ballot, specifically focusing on his residency status during the period he lived and worked in Washington D.C.
The judge’s decision means James Fishback will continue his campaign for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, with his name set to appear on the primary election ballot.
Further details regarding the specific evidence presented by both parties and the precise legal arguments used by the judge were not immediately available. The outcome of the residency challenge has significant implications for the Republican primary race.
Story summarized from the original created by Forrest Saunders on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
