Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faces a major decision if Senator Marco Rubio becomes Secretary of State in President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming administration. DeSantis has the power to appoint Rubio’s successor, but speculation about whom he might choose has raised key political questions.
One major factor is the influence of Trump, who may push for Lara Trump, his daughter-in-law, to fill the Senate seat. While DeSantis is not obligated to follow Trump’s wishes, the pressure could be considerable, especially given Trump’s popularity in Florida after his victory in the 2024 election.
If Rubio’s Senate seat becomes vacant, DeSantis is expected to face lobbying from Trump’s team, with many believing that Lara Trump would be the preferred candidate. Trump’s team sees Lara Trump as a viable option, and some argue that her appointment could benefit Florida Republicans by avoiding a contentious primary battle.
Trump allies, acknowledging the political capital from Florida’s 2024 election results, argue that appointing Lara Trump would make sense for the state, despite the governor’s independence from the president-elect.
However, there are other possibilities being discussed. One option is for DeSantis to appoint a placeholder, such as his longtime chief of staff James Uthmeier, who would hold the seat until a special election in 2026.
DeSantis Faces Pressure Over Rubio’s Senate Seat as Trump’s Team Pushes for Lara Trump
This would allow DeSantis to potentially run for the seat himself, setting up a path to a Senate bid ahead of a potential second presidential campaign in 2028. This strategy would give DeSantis significant control over Florida’s political future, ensuring that a trusted ally holds the seat in the interim while he retains the option of running for Senate if he chooses.
The debate over the appointment reflects the complex relationship between DeSantis and Trump. The two had a close partnership during DeSantis’ 2018 gubernatorial campaign, but their relationship soured as DeSantis rose to prominence on the national stage and ran against Trump in 2024.
Adding to the tension, Trump’s political operations include figures like Susie Wiles, who played a significant role in DeSantis’ campaign but now serves as Trump’s chief of staff. This strained dynamic suggests that Trump’s team will work hard to influence DeSantis’ decision on Rubio’s replacement.
Among other potential candidates for the Senate seat are prominent Florida Republicans, including Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and state House Speaker Paul Renner.
Each has its own support base, but the so-called placeholder strategy involving Uthmeier is viewed as one of the most likely outcomes. Regardless of who is ultimately chosen, DeSantis’ decision will have lasting implications for both state and national politics, especially as it may shape the future power dynamics in Florida ahead of his potential presidential run.
