Florida governor hopeful alleges DOJ probe of rival congressman for sex trafficking
Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback said the Justice Department is investigating fellow Republican Byron Donalds for alleged sex-trafficking, citing a whistleblower, but a DOJ official denied any such probe.
During a press conference in Tallahassee, Republican gubernatorial contender James Fishback announced that the Department of Justice is probing his primary opponent, Congressman Byron Donalds, for alleged sex-trafficking, based on a whistleblower’s account. He also alleged that Congressman Cory Mills engaged in comparable conduct at the MGM National Harbor casino near Washington, D.C. Fishback said he gave Donalds a chance to respond publicly, which the congressman declined.
One outlet reached out for comment, and a DOJ official categorically denied any sex-trafficking investigation of Donalds, noting that the inquiry into Mills concerns financial matters. Both lawmakers have consistently denied the accusations. Fishback indicated his campaign will avoid negative advertising on the matter, describing it as non-political, even as the Republican primary approaches on Aug. 18.
Why it matters
The claim could reshape Florida's GOP primary dynamics and raises questions about the use of unverified allegations in political campaigns.
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