Tallahassee — U.S. Rep. Randy Fine announced he will not attend the Sunshine State Showdown, a Republican Party of Florida event, after officials confirmed that gubernatorial candidate James Fishback would be among the speakers.
Fine, who had been listed as a featured guest, posted on X: “I have canceled my appearance at this event. If the Florida GOP wants to host a Neo‑Nazi rally, they will do it without me.”
Fishback has drawn controversy for openly racist attacks against frontrunner Byron Donalds, repeatedly mocking him as a “DEI hire.” Earlier this year, Fishback also made headlines for denying entry to Jewish students at a University of South Florida event.
The tension between Fine and Fishback is longstanding. Fishback has criticized Fine’s pro‑Israel positions during interviews with right‑wing figures like Tucker Carlson, whom Fine has labeled “the most dangerous antisemite in the country.” Fine previously canceled an appearance with the Heritage Foundation after its refusal to distance itself from white nationalist Nick Fuentes, whom Fishback has praised.
The GOP event’s expanded guest list includes Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, former House Speaker Paul Renner, and hunter Bobby Williams. However, only Donalds has met polling requirements to appear in the debate portion of the Showdown.
Fishback dismissed Fine’s withdrawal, telling Florida Politics: “Good riddance.”
Key Points
- Event: Sunshine State Showdown, Republican Party of Florida.
- Fine’s stance: Called the event a “Neo‑Nazi rally” after Fishback’s inclusion.
- Fishback controversies: Racist attacks on Byron Donalds; antisemitic actions at USF.
- Political tension: Fine vs. Fishback over Israel and white nationalist ties.
- Other speakers: Jay Collins, Paul Renner, Bobby Williams.
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