TALLAHASSEE, USA — Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President-elect Donald Trump, has announced she will not pursue the soon-to-be-vacant Florida Senate seat, ending weeks of speculation about her political future.
In a post on X, Trump said her decision came after “an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many.”
She also hinted at a “big announcement” in January, sparking curiosity about her next move.
Her withdrawal follows her recent resignation as co-chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), a position she assumed in March during her father-in-law’s campaign for the presidency.
The timing of her departure fuelled rumours she might replace Senator Marco Rubio, whom President-elect Trump has tapped as secretary of state.
“I could not have been more honoured to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our lifetime,” she wrote.
“I’m truly humbled by the unbelievable support shown to me by the people of our country and here in the great state of Florida.”
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.
I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our… https://t.co/ARdvTQki9N
— Lara Trump (@LaraLeaTrump) December 21, 2024
DeSantis to Choose Rubio’s Successor
Rubio’s departure will leave Florida’s Senate seat vacant early next year, with Governor Ron DeSantis tasked with appointing a replacement to serve the remainder of Rubio’s term, which ends in 2026.
DeSantis has pledged to conduct “extensive vetting and candidate interviews” before making his decision.
While Lara Trump’s name had been floated as a contender, reports suggest she faced significant obstacles, including doubts from President-elect Trump himself.
“I don’t expect her to get selected,” Trump told reporters last week. “Ron is doing a good job. It is his choice, nothing to do with me.”
Potential Appointees Emerge
Speculation about Rubio’s successor has intensified, with Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody emerging as a frontrunner.
Other names reportedly under consideration include Lt. Gov. Jeanette Núñez, DeSantis’ chief of staff James Uthmeier, and former Florida House Speaker Jose Oliva.
If Moody is selected, sources suggest DeSantis could appoint Uthmeier as attorney general, leveraging his long-standing alliance with the governor.
Political Context
Lara Trump’s decision to step aside may reflect the evolving dynamics between DeSantis and the Trump family.
The governor, who previously enjoyed Donald Trump’s endorsement, strained his relationship with the former president during an unsuccessful bid for the GOP presidential nomination earlier this year.
After dropping out, DeSantis endorsed Trump and played a key role in fundraising for his campaign.
While some Trump loyalists had rallied behind Lara Trump’s potential appointment, including Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.), her withdrawal signals a shift in focus.
“I look forward to serving our country again sometime in the future,” she said in her statement, adding her best wishes to DeSantis as he makes his decision.
What’s Next for Lara Trump?
With her January announcement looming, Lara Trump’s future plans remain unclear.
Political analysts speculate she may pursue another role within the Trump administration or focus on other Republican leadership opportunities.
For now, Florida awaits Governor DeSantis’ decision, which is expected early next year, as the state prepares to navigate a transition in Senate leadership.
