GOP candidate for governor James Fishback, who is running to succeed term-limited Ron DeSantis in the 2026 Florida gubernatorial race, announced Monday that if he’s elected, “As Florida Governor, I will *mandate* that all public school students come to school wearing a uniform. For boys, a white polo, khakis, and a belt. For girls, knee-length dresses or pant suits. Strong schools are only possible,” Fishback wrote, “with order and discipline.”
When Republican and fellow Floridian Jennifer Kleman, who plans on running for Florida’s 8th Congressional District, asked, “Will the school provide these? Many cant afford that extra expense…. especially if they have multiple children,” Fishback replied, “Yes, parents will get a $250 uniform stipend per child.”
As Florida Governor, I will *mandate* that all public school students come to school wearing a uniform.
For boys, a white polo, khakis, and a belt. For girls, knee-length dresses or pant suits. Strong schools are only possible with order and discipline. pic.twitter.com/adfUvCGaEq
— James Fishback (@j_fishback) January 20, 2026
There are approximately 2.76 million students enrolled in Florida public schools for the 2025-2026 school year. At $250 per student, the total cost of Fishback’s uniform plan would be approximately $689 million.
Note: When Kleman launched her congressional campaign in January, she wrote “my main goal is to save the middle class and make sure your tax dollars are going to help you the greatest people of the greatest nation.”
Fishback also confirmed this week that if elected he plans to abolish property taxes for all state residents, and he’ll send out a mass email to all 260,000 state employees and ask them “What did you get done this week?” Taking a page out of Elon Musk’s DOGE playbook, Fishback said, “if they don’t reply with 5 accomplishments, they’re out.”
As Florida Governor, I’ll send out a mass email to all 260,000 state employees and ask them “What did you get done this week?”
If they don’t reply with 5 accomplishments, they’re out. pic.twitter.com/W8wyxelFAL
— James Fishback (@j_fishback) January 19, 2026
Note: In the GOP primary, Fishback will face Trump-endorsed Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL), and DeSantis-endorsed Lt. Governor Jay Collins, among others.