IHOP has denied claims that it invited far-right Republican candidate James Fishback to campaign at its restaurants, after he was banned from all Waffle House locations in Florida. Fishback, who is running to replace Governor Ron DeSantis, shared an image on social media that appeared to show a direct message from IHOP's official corporate account saying, “Hey, wanna come over?”
However, an IHOP spokesperson said the message was not authentic and that the company has no ties to Fishback or his campaign. “Since our founding, IHOP and its franchisees have been committed to providing warm and welcoming dining experiences for all guests. We are not working with James Fishback or his campaign in any capacity,” the spokesperson said. “Additionally, we have confirmed that the image circulating on social media is not authentic.”
Fishback announced earlier this week that he had been banned from all Waffle House locations in Florida, after previously planning to visit every store to “meet voters where they are.” He said the ban came despite receiving explicit permission three weeks ago. In response to a request for comment, Fishback sent a picture of himself inside an IHOP with supporters, praising the staff and saying he looked forward to his next stop in Tampa.
Fishback has faced heavy criticism for controversial stances, including calls to ban immigrant visa programs and prevent foreign students from enrolling at Florida colleges. He has also claimed that the only “systemic racism” in the US is against white Christian men and proposed burning down abortion clinics. In January, he was criticised for referring to his rival Byron Donalds as “By’rone” and claiming Donalds wanted to turn Florida into a “ghetto.”
