‘Will Shoot You Dead’: Anti-H1B Florida Governor Brandishes Rifle After Claiming Arson

Last Updated:February 11, 2026, 21:37 IST

Fishback alleged arson at residence, later posted clip warning threats will be met with force.

Republican Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback posted a video on Monday showing himself with a semi-automatic rifle outside his home after claiming an arson attack, warning that he would not hesitate to use force if his campaign or supporters were threatened, according to US news reports.

In the video shared on X, Fishback, flanked by supporters at his Madison County residence, emerged from the front door holding a Ruger AR-556 rifle. Alongside the clip, he wrote: “If anyone attacks our staff or volunteers, we will not wait for the police. We will shoot you dead".

US-based television station WCTV reported that Fishback told media he returned to his property on Sunday to find a fire burning in the side yard, which he believes was intentionally set. “Well, I don’t think it’s a coincidence that your grass suddenly incinerates right next to the side of your house," he said, suggesting the blaze might have been politically motivated.

Despite his claims, authorities have not opened an investigation into the incident, and officials from Madison County Fire Rescue and the Sheriff’s Office did not confirm any arson probe. Fishback also acknowledged there were no security cameras at the time but said he plans to install them.

After the fire, Fishback hosted a rally at his home, drawing supporters to his property later on Monday evening, WCTV noted.

Who is James Fishback?

James Thomas Fishback, 30, is an American investor and CEO of the investment firm Azoria Partners who is running for the Republican nomination in the 2026 Florida governor’s race. He has positioned himself as an outsider candidate challenging front-runners in a competitive GOP primary.

Campaign focus and H-1B stance

A central plank of Fishback’s campaign is strong opposition to the H-1B visa programme, which allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialised roles. According to Newsweek, he has repeatedly called the system harmful to American workers and has vowed that, if elected, he would take sweeping actions against its use in Florida state government.

News world ‘Will Shoot You Dead’: Anti-H1B Florida Governor Brandishes Rifle After Claiming Arson

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