Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback accused Republican Representative Byron Donalds of being under federal investigation for sex trafficking, but federal authorities have completely denied the allegations exist.
Explosive Accusations Surface in Primary Race
Fishback unveiled his allegations against Donalds and fellow Florida Representative Cory Mills during a Thursday news briefing in Tallahassee. The gubernatorial candidate claimed an unnamed government whistleblower approached his campaign with evidence implicating both congressmen. He alleged that a Department of Justice investigation initially targeting Mills had expanded to include Donalds, with both men supposedly under investigation for federal sex trafficking offenses.
According to Fishback’s claims, federal investigators suspect the two congressmen traveled to a luxury Maryland resort on May 17, 2024, and November 19, 2024, where they allegedly solicited and paid women for sexual acts. Fishback referenced a July 21, 2026, NBC News report about Mills being under criminal investigation, suggesting this probe had widened to encompass his primary opponent.
Federal Officials Reject the Claims
Despite the serious nature of Fishback’s allegations, federal authorities have categorically denied that any such investigation exists. The denial from federal officials directly contradicts the whistleblower information Fishback presented as the basis for his public accusations. This creates a significant credibility problem for the gubernatorial candidate, who staked his allegations on unnamed sources claiming insider knowledge of federal law enforcement activities.
The timing of these unverified accusations during a heated Republican primary race raises questions about political motivations. Fishback faces Donalds in the Florida gubernatorial primary, making the sex trafficking allegations particularly inflammatory given their potential impact on voter perceptions.
Political Fallout and Questions
The situation puts Fishback in a precarious position as federal authorities have publicly refuted the foundation of his claims. Making unfounded allegations of serious federal crimes against a political opponent could expose Fishback to legal consequences, including potential defamation lawsuits. The lack of any confirmed federal investigation contradicts the central premise of his Thursday press conference.
Donalds, who represents Florida’s 19th congressional district, has built a national profile within the Republican Party. These allegations, though denied by federal officials, represent an unprecedented attack in what has become an increasingly contentious primary race for Florida’s governorship. The false nature of the claims could significantly damage Fishback’s credibility with conservative voters who value honesty and integrity in their elected officials.