Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday that he would take additional time to decide on a replacement for U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, who President-elect Donald Trump has selected to serve as secretary of state.
DeSantis indicated that he will make the appointment around the time of Trump’s inauguration on January 20, ensuring the new senator aligns with his vision for immigration enforcement and federal bureaucracy reform.
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“I think we’ve got a number of great candidates, but I want to make sure that we know what we’re going to get,” DeSantis said during a press appearance in Tampa. The governor previously suggested he would name Rubio’s replacement by early January but has now opted to extend the timeline to make a deliberate choice.
DeSantis emphasized that his appointee must be strong on critical issues, particularly immigration enforcement and cutting federal bureaucracy.
“If I’m appointing you, I want to know that you’re going to be strong on all these issues,” he said. “Then you run in ’26 and get elected on your own. But for these next two years, we want somebody that’s really going to be able to deliver.”
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While Rubio’s term officially runs until 2028, DeSantis’ appointee would only serve until a special election is held in 2026. The decision carries significant weight, as the appointee will play a key role in shaping federal policies over the next two years, particularly on issues central to DeSantis’ agenda.
A number of prominent Florida Republicans are being considered for the appointment, including:
- Attorney General Ashley Moody: Known for her staunch conservative positions and close alignment with DeSantis.
- Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez: A high-profile figure in DeSantis’ administration with experience in state and federal matters.
- State Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa: A rising star in the Florida Legislature with strong military credentials.
- U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, R-FL: A freshman congressman and vocal supporter of DeSantis’ policies.
- James Uthmeier: DeSantis’ chief of staff, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the governor’s administration.
DeSantis underscored the importance of selecting a candidate who aligns with his administration’s priorities. “I can endorse somebody, and they run and win, but if I’m appointing you, I want to know you’re going to be strong on all these issues,” he said. The governor’s remarks suggest he is looking for a candidate who will not only serve as a strong advocate for Florida but also reflect his own policy positions during their tenure.
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With Rubio set to join Trump’s Cabinet and the Senate seat soon to be vacant, all eyes are on DeSantis as he deliberates his decision. The governor’s choice is expected to shape the political landscape in Florida and beyond, setting the tone for the next two years of representation in the U.S. Senate.
DeSantis is expected to announce his decision in mid-January, shortly before Trump’s inauguration. Until then, speculation will continue about who will step into Rubio’s shoes and carry forward the governor’s ambitious agenda on the national stage.
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