James Fishback, a Republican candidate for Florida governor, held a rally on Merritt Island on May 11, 2026, where hundreds of young supporters gathered despite his current 9% approval rating in the primary. The event, organized by the Space Coast Patriots group, took place at the Merritt Island Public Library and featured Fishback’s hardline positions on immigration, chemtrails, and banning abortion clinics. The crowd, mostly under 30, erupted in applause when Fishback criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci, calling for his prosecution over actions during the 2020 pandemic. Fishback, 31, has aligned himself with far-right figures like Nick Fuentes and has pledged to ban abortion clinics and integrate Biblical values into schools. He also opposes AI data centers and U.S. funding for Israel, positions that diverged from traditional Republican themes. Polls show Fishback trailing Trump-endorsed Rep. Byron Donalds, who leads with 54% in the primary. Fishback’s campaign has focused on restricting immigrant workers’ ability to send money abroad and banning wire transfers to home countries. He said, 'If our founding fathers knew what Dr. Fauci did to us in 2020, they would have publicly executed him,' a claim met with loud cheers. The rally highlighted a stark contrast between Fishback’s low polling numbers and the enthusiastic support from younger voters, many of whom were drawn to his unconventional stances. The event underscored the growing influence of far-right rhetoric in Brevard County politics as the race to succeed Gov. Ron DeSantis intensifies. Fishback’s team has emphasized his focus on 'securing Florida’s borders' and 'restoring traditional values,' though critics argue his policies risk alienating moderate voters. With the primary looming, Fishback’s ability to translate rally energy into broader support remains uncertain.