Trump says he doesn’t expect DeSantis to name daughter-in-law Lara Trump as Rubio’s Senate replacement
President-elect Trump said on Monday that he does not believe Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will choose his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, to succeed Sen. Marco Rubio in the Senate. Trump made these comments during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, stating, “No, I don’t. I probably don’t. But I don’t know. Ron’s doing a good job. That’s his choice – nothing to do with me.”
Last month, Trump announced his intention to nominate Rubio, a three-term senator from Florida, to serve as secretary of state in his incoming administration. Since then, there has been speculation about who will fill Rubio’s Senate seat for the next two years, with some top Trump allies recommending Lara Trump for the position.
DeSantis has indicated that he will make a decision on Rubio’s Senate replacement by early next month. Trump praised Lara Trump, calling her “unbelievable” and highlighting her successful tenure as Republican National Committee co-chair. He mentioned that Lara is highly respected and in demand for various opportunities, including television contracts.
While Trump endorsed Lara Trump for the Senate seat, sources in Florida suggest that DeSantis is more likely to choose a candidate with prior public office experience in the state. Lara Trump, in interviews with Fox News and the AP, expressed her willingness to “seriously consider” serving Florida in the Senate.
DeSantis, who had a rocky relationship with Trump during the 2024 GOP presidential nomination race but later endorsed him for the general election, emphasized the need for a senator who aligns with President Trump’s agenda. DeSantis stated, “Florida deserves a senator who will help President Trump deliver on his election mandate, be strong on immigration and border security, and has a proven record of results.”
The formal confirmation process for Rubio’s replacement will begin after Trump’s inauguration on January 20. DeSantis has received interest from several potential candidates and plans to conduct vetting and interviews over the next few weeks, with a selection expected by early January.
In the midst of the political speculation and decision-making process, all eyes are on Florida as the state prepares for a new senator to represent its interests in Washington. The outcome of this selection will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the political landscape in Florida and beyond.
