TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough Circuit Judge Nancy Jacobs announced her resignation effective May 31, following a disciplinary panel’s recommendation for her removal. The decision comes in the wake of findings by the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission that Jacobs exhibited unprofessional behavior during her contentious campaign against Judge Jared Smith in 2022, a race that became notably divisive over issues surrounding abortion rights.
The commission’s investigation revealed that Jacobs violated ethical standards meant to guide the conduct of judges and candidates. Although judicial races in Florida are traditionally nonpartisan, the campaign between Jacobs and Smith devolved into a rare spectacle of political tension, largely fueled by the highly sensitive topic of abortion.
Jacobs’s conduct was deemed inappropriate enough to question her suitability for the judiciary, prompting her resignation just as the Florida Supreme Court deliberated on the panel’s findings. “I step aside with my integrity intact and my voice unwavering,” Jacobs stated, reflecting on her judicial service as a significant honor. She affirmed her commitment to upholding constitutional values and ensuring justice for all who appear in her courtroom.
The conflict between Jacobs and Smith escalated over the past three years, culminating in a heated election characterized by both personal and political backlash. Smith drew national scrutiny after a ruling that denied a young girl the ability to obtain an abortion without parental consent, which led to accusations of judicial misconduct.
In a striking twist, a widely circulated video featured Smith’s wife making remarks that were perceived as antisemitic toward Jacobs, who is Jewish. Social media communications from Jacobs’ campaign further complicated matters, with statements urging voters to reject Smith and questioning his conservative views.
Despite the political turmoil, Jacobs emerged victorious in the August 2022 election, winning 52% of the vote. However, Smith was later reappointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to the newly established 6th District Court of Appeal. Following her electoral triumph, Jacobs faced formal misconduct allegations, including accusations related to her campaign behavior and attempts to undermine a colleague, Judge Robin Fuson.
Jacobs admitted to some missteps but the panel criticized her for lacking contrition. As the Supreme Court reviewed the panel’s recommendation, Jacobs opted to resign before facing potential disciplinary action.
In her statement, she reiterated her commitment to the rule of law and civil liberties and expressed gratitude to the voters who allowed her to serve in a judicial capacity. Her resignation marks the conclusion of a tumultuous chapter in her career, laid against the backdrop of Florida’s politically charged judicial landscape.
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