Tucker Carlson-Backed Florida Candidate Accused Of Racist Dogwhistle Against Rep. Byron Donalds — Faces Allegations Of Underage Relationship

James Fishback, a Republican candidate for Florida governor who was recently endorsed by conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, triggered controversy after a social media exchange many observers called a racist dogwhistle directed at U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL).

The incident began when a user posted side-by-side photos of Donalds with his wife and Fishback with a woman, captioning the images: “BREAKING: James Fishback once again MOGS By’rone Donalds.” The slang term “mog,” defined by Merriam-Webster as Internet shorthand for “to outclass,” is often used to compare physical appearance or presence.

Fishback quote-tweeted the post, echoing the altered spelling of Donalds’s name and adding a racially charged comment:

“By’rone wants to turn Florida into a Section 8 ghetto.”

Critics said using the misspelling and invoking “Section 8” — a reference to federally subsidized housing often stigmatized by race and class — read as a deliberate dogwhistle.

Endorsement, Policy Positions, And Political Stakes

Tucker Carlson promoted a recent on-camera conversation with Fishback on X, writing that Fishback’s messaging represented the future of winning Republican campaigns. Fishback has also emphasized an anti-Israel stance as a central part of his platform, a position that has attracted attention and controversy within conservative circles.

Allegations From Ex‑Fiancée

Separately, Fishback faces allegations from his ex‑fiancée, Keniah Fort, who told Florida’s Voice that she joined Fishback’s organization in 2021 at age 16 while Fishback was 26 and that a romantic relationship began while she was still a minor. Fort’s petition, as reported, alleges the relationship escalated, that she became financially dependent on Fishback, and that the relationship included episodes she characterizes as abusive and controlling — including objects thrown, yelling, an instance of a grabbed arm that left visible marks, and threats or manipulation involving self‑harm.

Fishback has strongly denied the allegations. He told Florida’s Voice:

“False accusations are sadly all too common today. The court in Florida’s Second Judicial Circuit reviewed these egregious accusations, conducted two lengthy hearings, and fully exonerated me. I have never been arrested or charged with any crime unlike my opponent Byron Donalds.”

Reporting indicates the matters were the subject of court review; Fishback’s statement frames the outcome as exoneration. Public records and reporting should be consulted for details about the legal proceedings and their conclusions.

Broader Context

The exchange has amplified scrutiny of the crowded Republican primary in Florida. President Donald Trump previously endorsed Byron Donalds, calling him a “TOTAL WINNER” and praising his family and leadership potential. The clash between Fishback and Donalds — combined with the allegation against Fishback and Carlson’s high-profile endorsement — has heightened attention on character, rhetoric, and electability in the race.

What To Watch: Whether party leaders and voters respond to the dogwhistle accusations, how the allegations against Fishback affect his campaign, and whether endorsements from national figures reshape the primary dynamic.