James Fishback Defends Property Tax Plan, Addresses Controversial Remarks in WPLG Interview

James Fishback speaks outside a home in a Fishback for Florida campaign video.

MIAMI, Fla. — Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback defended his proposal to eliminate property taxes and responded to questions about his controversial campaign remarks during a Sunday interview on WPLG Local 10.

“I’m running for governor to eliminate your property tax bill,” Fishback told host Janine Stanwood as he promoted affordability as a central issue of his campaign ahead of Florida’s Aug. 18 Republican primary.

The interview also turned to language that has generated criticism throughout Fishback’s campaign. Stanwood questioned him about using the words “slave” and “lynched” while speaking to Black people and asked whether those choices were intentional.

Fishback did not directly explain the intent behind the remarks. Instead, he criticized Republican front-runner Byron Donalds’ campaign donors and argued that Florida voters are more concerned about property taxes, electricity bills and other household expenses than his choice of words.

Fishback defends property-tax proposal

Eliminating property taxes on homesteaded properties remains one of the cornerstone proposals of Fishback’s campaign. He argues that Florida homeowners should be able to own their homes without continuing to pay what he describes as rent to the government.

Fishback says spending reductions and other revenue sources could allow local governments to maintain funding for essential services. His campaign contends that local property-tax collections have increased significantly in recent years and that government efficiencies could help offset the lost revenue.

The proposal has attracted support from voters seeking relief from Florida’s rising housing costs. Critics, however, have questioned how counties, cities and school districts would replace property-tax revenue used to fund law enforcement, fire protection, schools and other public services.

Republican primary enters final stretch

Sunday’s appearance came as early voting began Monday in Miami-Dade County and vote-by-mail ballots were already being returned. Florida’s mandatory statewide early-voting period runs from Aug. 8 through Aug. 15, although counties may offer additional days. Election Day is Aug. 18.

The interview followed a significant legal victory for Fishback last week. Leon County Circuit Judge David Frank rejected a residency challenge brought by Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, allowing Fishback to remain on the Republican primary ballot.

Collins argued that Fishback failed to satisfy Florida’s constitutional seven-year residency requirement, citing his Washington, D.C., voting, mortgage and homestead records. The court concluded that the evidence did not establish that Fishback had abandoned Florida as his permanent residence.

Fishback is one of four Republicans seeking the party’s nomination in Florida’s 2026 governor race. The field also includes Donalds, Collins and former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner. The Republican nominee will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.