Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback posted a video on X in which he warned employers in the state who use H-1B foreign labor. According to the post, he urged them to fire their foreign workers and hire Floridians or face the “ultimate wrath of the state of Florida.” The clip from a live gubernatorial debate hosted by Patrick Bet-David of the PBD Podcast in Fort Lauderdale has drawn significant online attention, with users reacting to the candidate’s remarks on hiring priorities.
The video shows Fishback standing at a podium in front of a backdrop with the seal of the state of Florida and PBD Podcast branding. In the clip, he addresses employers directly and states, “To the 1,900 employers in Florida right now who are using H-1B foreign labor: I am warning you once and for all. Fire your foreign workers and hire back qualified Floridians; or, you will face the ultimate wrath of the state of Florida.”
The post text repeats the same warning. It is not clear from the video which specific question or moment prompted these remarks, or how the other participants on stage responded.
Candidate’s Ultimatum on Foreign Labor Sparks Mixed Responses
Some users expressed support for the message. One commenter wrote, “You make me want to move to Florida”, while another stated, “Every state needs to do this!”
Additional replies praised the direct approach, with one user saying, “Damn dude. If you follow through for them, I’ll vote for you on the National stage.”
Other commenters raised questions about authority and feasibility. One wrote, “You have no jurisdiction over immigration matters as a governor.”
Another commented, “Wow, a direct threat to the private companies to not exercise their right to hire talent. And a strong-worded one too. Not sure if this is even legal.”
Several replies also noted concerns about workforce qualifications. One commenter stated, “You do realize that Florida is the state with terrible education, how the *expletive*you expect to have highly qualified people?” and questioned the availability of highly qualified local workers.
The remarks add another moment to the ongoing debate among Republican candidates in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race over workforce and immigration policy. Discussion of the clip continues online as voters weigh the candidates’ positions.
