State Board of Education Board Member Dan Foganholi has endorsed James Fishback for Florida governor, marking one of the first signs of support for Fishback as he mounts a campaign against U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL).
"Today, I am endorsing James Fishback for Governor because he is the education leader Florida needs," Foganholi wrote. "@J_fishback will expand on Governor DeSantis’ school choice achievements, raise teacher pay, and deliver the strongest investment our public schools have ever seen. James is a fourth-generation Floridian, and he will fight for every child in our state."
Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Foganholi to the Florida Board of Education in August 2024. He was previously appointed to the Broward County School Board, also by the governor.
"As a member of the State Board of Education, I watched James transform classrooms through @IncubateDebate," Foganholi continued. "He brought thousands of students together across the state and taught them how to debate, think, and lead. I’ve seen him in rural counties like Hendry and Glades and in urban counties like Broward and Dade motivating, inspiring, and training students to be the next generation of well-spoken, free-thinking leaders."
Fishback, who announced his candidacy last week, thanked Foganholi for his endorsement on social media.
"Dan, I’m honored to have your endorsement. Your educational leadership and service have strengthened our state, and I’m grateful to have you with us as we put Florida First," Fishback wrote.
Foganholi's support might be surprising to some, given that Rep. Donalds has racked up numerous endorsements from high-level officials, including U.S. Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) and President Donald Trump.
Several high-ranking congressional Republicans are also backing Donalds, as well as many Republican members of the Florida Legislature.
But with Foganholi's support, will more state officials begin to rally behind Fishback? Or will Donalds continue to coalesce the Republican contingent?
Time will tell. But the endorsement is certainly good news for Fishback as he continues to raise his name ID across the state. The 30-year-old Florida native is also the CEO of Azoria, an investment firm, and the founder of Incubate Debate.
The Florida gubernatorial primary is Aug. 18, 2026. The general election is Nov. 3.
