DeSantis announces choice for Senate appointment after Rubio’s expected resignation

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, announced on Thursday his intention to appoint Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody to the Senate once Senator Marco Rubio, also a Republican, resigns. Rubio is expected to be confirmed as President-elect Donald Trump’s Secretary of State after the inauguration.

Moody, who has been a close ally of DeSantis in the state, has worked closely with him to advance his agenda as governor. In a recent interview on “Fox and Friends First,” Moody expressed her focus on her current role as attorney general and her commitment to working on behalf of Floridians. She stated, “I have my hands full here as attorney general, and I’m incredibly focused on this job, working on behalf of Floridians, making sure I’m protecting the autonomy of the state and pushing Washington out of our business and holding them accountable. Of course, I love … being in leadership, working with President Trump, working with Governor DeSantis. And I hope to continue working on behalf of Floridians.”

Initially, Trump and Senators Katie Britt of Alabama and Rick Scott of Florida endorsed Lara Trump, Trump’s daughter-in-law and former RNC Co-Chair, to succeed Rubio. However, Lara Trump later withdrew her name from consideration.

In a statement regarding her decision to withdraw, Lara Trump said, “After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate.”

The appointment of Ashley Moody to the Senate by Governor DeSantis is seen as a strategic move to maintain a strong representation for Florida in the federal government. Moody’s experience as attorney general and her alignment with DeSantis’ policies make her a fitting choice for the role.

As the confirmation process for Rubio’s potential replacement unfolds, all eyes will be on Moody as she prepares to take on this new responsibility in representing the interests of Floridians at the federal level.