Behind closed doors, quiet political maneuvering inside Florida’s Republican Party is fueling fresh questions about who is really shaping the state’s upcoming governor’s race.
As the 2026 election approaches, reports suggest that a high-profile adviser closely tied to Gov. Ron DeSantis has been communicating with Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback — despite repeated public denials from those involved.
The developments come at a critical moment, as Florida Republicans prepare for a crowded primary that will help determine the state’s political future following DeSantis’ exit due to term limits.
Behind-the-Scenes Contacts Raise Eyebrows
According to individuals familiar with the situation, Christina Pushaw — one of Gov. DeSantis’ most visible and influential aides — has spoken with Fishback, his top campaign adviser, and even his uncle, South Florida real estate investor Fred Fishback.
The conversations reportedly centered on Fishback’s political messaging and his potential role in carrying forward DeSantis’ policy agenda after the governor leaves office.
Fishback officially entered the Republican primary last month, presenting himself as a candidate aligned with DeSantis’ conservative record. However, the race already includes Rep. Byron Donalds, who currently holds President Donald Trump’s endorsement — a powerful advantage with GOP voters statewide.
DeSantis Camp Pushes Back
Publicly, DeSantis allies insist they are not assisting or advising Fishback. Pushaw herself flatly denied any campaign role.
“I do not work for James Fishback and never have,” Pushaw said, calling reports suggesting otherwise inaccurate.
Still, conflicting accounts have kept the story alive — particularly after video footage from a recent private event surfaced.
Video Sparks New Questions
At a financial conference in Boca Raton earlier this month, Fred Fishback was recorded discussing Pushaw’s involvement with his nephew’s political efforts. In the video, he confirmed speaking with Pushaw and described her as sharp and politically savvy.
He also claimed Pushaw initially reached out to James Fishback after noticing his aggressive conservative messaging on social media.
“They sat down and started talking,” Fred Fishback said in the recording.
Later, Fred Fishback clarified that neither Pushaw nor his nephew directly requested campaign donations and emphasized that Pushaw told him she was not being paid by the campaign.
Pushaw later stated she does not know Fred Fishback.
Conflicting Accounts Continue
James Fishback strongly disputed his uncle’s comments, insisting Pushaw does not work for his campaign and plays no formal role. He did acknowledge having dinner with Pushaw last fall — before launching his campaign — praising her intelligence and experience.
Adding to the complexity, NBC News previously reported that another DeSantis adviser, Taryn Fenske, had also communicated with Fishback. Sources familiar with the matter claim Fishback campaign aide Alex Mungia suggested that the campaign had broader support from DeSantis’ political circle.
Mungia declined to address specific claims but publicly praised Fishback’s leadership potential.
Family Pressure and Political Tensions
The controversy deepened after Fishback alleged that Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins attempted to pressure him out of the race through his uncle. Fishback claimed Collins privately met with Fred Fishback and encouraged him to convince his nephew to withdraw and endorse another candidate.
Pushaw reposted Fishback’s allegation on social media, further intensifying speculation.
Collins’ office dismissed the claim, calling it false and politically motivated.
During the Boca Raton conference, Fred Fishback appeared uneasy about his nephew’s campaign, warning that he foresaw serious political risks ahead.
What Voters Are Watching
It remains unclear whether Gov. DeSantis was aware that multiple trusted aides were in contact with Fishback. His office declined to comment.
As Florida Republicans weigh their options — and with President Trump’s endorsement already shaping the race — grassroots voters are paying close attention to the power dynamics unfolding behind the scenes.
With the 2026 governor’s race still in its early stages, the quiet alliances forming now could ultimately determine who leads Florida next.