TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback has selected former South Florida police officer Sean A. Lozano as his running mate, giving his campaign a law enforcement-focused ticket as he seeks the Republican nomination for Florida governor in 2026.
Fishback announced the selection Thursday outside Florida’s Division of Elections in Tallahassee, where he formally introduced Lozano as his choice for lieutenant governor. The announcement comes as the Republican primary field continues to take shape ahead of next year’s election.
Lozano, a former South Florida police officer, joins Fishback’s campaign as it attempts to distinguish itself in a crowded Republican field that includes U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, former House Speaker Paul Renner, Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, and several other candidates.
Fishback said his decision reflects a campaign centered on public safety, government accountability, and conservative governance. During Thursday’s announcement, he described Lozano as someone who understands the challenges facing law enforcement officers and Florida communities.
Lozano emphasized his background in policing and pledged to support policies aimed at strengthening public safety and backing first responders if elected.
The announcement marks one of the first major campaign milestones for Fishback since launching his bid for governor. While his campaign has focused heavily on affordability, immigration, and conservative policy priorities, naming a running mate allows him to begin presenting a complete executive ticket to Republican voters months before the primary campaign intensifies.
The 2026 governor’s race is expected to be one of Florida’s most closely watched statewide contests, with Gov. Ron DeSantis prohibited from seeking another term because of term limits. The Republican nominee will advance to the November 2026 general election against the eventual Democratic nominee.
Why It Matters
By selecting a former police officer as his running mate, Fishback is reinforcing a campaign message built around law enforcement, public safety, and conservative governance. The move also gives his campaign additional visibility as Republican candidates compete for attention in an increasingly competitive gubernatorial primary.
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