Who Will DeSantis Choose to Succeed Rubio in the Senate?

US Senate emblem with microphones in background.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faces a crucial decision as he prepares to appoint Senator Marco Rubio’s replacement, with the choice potentially shaping both the state’s political landscape and the Republican Party’s influence in Congress.

At a Glance

  • Governor DeSantis has not yet decided on Marco Rubio’s Senate replacement
  • Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is considered the leading contender
  • DeSantis is seeking a candidate who will support Trump’s agenda
  • The appointment is expected to be announced around Trump’s inauguration on January 20
  • DeSantis is unlikely to choose a current member of Congress due to the slim Republican majority in the House

DeSantis Weighs Options for Crucial Senate Appointment

As Marco Rubio prepares to transition to his role as Secretary of State in the incoming Trump administration, Governor Ron DeSantis finds himself at a critical juncture. The task of appointing Rubio’s Senate replacement carries significant weight, given the delicate balance of power in Congress and the need to support President-elect Trump’s policy priorities.

DeSantis has made it clear that he is looking for a candidate who can deliver results and support the new administration’s agenda. “We want someone who is really able to deliver,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing the importance of the appointment.

“We want someone who is really able to deliver” – DeSantis

Leading Contenders and Political Considerations

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has emerged as the frontrunner for the Senate seat. Known for her legal efforts supporting GOP policies and opposing the Biden administration, Moody’s potential appointment would align with DeSantis’ goal of selecting a candidate who can effectively advance conservative priorities in Washington.

Other potential candidates include Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nunez, Chief of Staff James Urthmeyer, and State Senator Jay Collins. However, DeSantis has signaled that he is unlikely to choose a current member of Congress, such as Representatives Kat Cammack or Cory Mills, due to the slim Republican majority in the U.S. House.

“I’ve been honest with the Congress, congresspeople; that’s a big concern of mine because one of the criteria I had with who I’m going to appoint is, we just had an election. [The] president has a mandate. I want you to help facilitate that. I don’t want you to be sanding the gears.” – DeSantis

Timeline and Political Implications

The governor is expected to announce his decision around Trump’s inauguration on January 20. DeSantis stated, “We are obviously making an appointment very soon, we have until Jan. 20 where we will not have a vacancy,” adding, “I anticipate a vacancy on the afternoon of the 20th and no later than the 21st, so we’ll have someone ready to go.”

This appointment is not only significant for Florida but also for the broader political landscape. The chosen senator will serve the remaining two years of Rubio’s term, with a special election scheduled for November 2026. This gives the appointee a chance to establish themselves in the Senate before facing voters.

DeSantis’ decision will have far-reaching implications, potentially shaping his own political legacy and influence in Florida. As the governor navigates this complex political terrain, he must balance the needs of the state, the expectations of the Trump administration, and the strategic interests of the Republican Party.

As Florida and the nation await DeSantis’ announcement, it’s clear that this Senate appointment will play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape for years to come. The governor’s choice will not only impact Florida’s representation in Washington but also contribute to the broader conservative agenda and the effectiveness of the incoming Trump administration.

Sources:

  1. Ron DeSantis has to pick Rubio’s replacement soon. Here’s who he’s leaning toward.
  2. When will Gov. DeSantis announce Marco Rubio’s replacement?