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The elected president, Donald Trump, has informed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of his interest in having his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, succeed Senator Marco Rubio, who has been nominated as the next Secretary of State.
Sources familiar with the matter confirmed to The Washington Post that DeSantis is seriously considering Lara Trump for the position, taking into account the opinion of the elected president.
However, it is speculated that the governor may lean towards appointing someone with previous experience in Florida's public administration to fill Rubio's position.
Lara Trump, who is married to Eric Trump, resigned this week from her position as vice chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC).
In a message on social media, he highlighted that he has accomplished the three main goals he set when assuming office in March: breaking fundraising records, consolidating an "army" of electoral observers, and promoting early voting for millions of people.
"The work I came to do has been completed, and I intend to formally step down from the RNC at our next meeting," he stated in his farewell message last Monday.
Trump's daughter-in-law took over as vice chair of the RNC on March 8, with the backing of her father-in-law, further consolidating the family's influence within the Republican Party.
In her final message, Lara expressed gratitude to Donald Trump and the chairman of the RNC, Michael Whatley, for the support provided during her tenure.
"If I am chosen to take on another position, it would be a true honor for me," Lara Trump said last month in an interview with Fox News.
According to two sources cited by The Washington Post, the request places DeSantis in a complicated position, as local media suggest that Trump also sees him as a potential Secretary of Defense.
This move is being considered due to the issues faced by the current nominee, Pete Hegseth, who has been accused of sexual abuse in California in 2017 and of having alcohol-related problems.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marco Rubio's Succession in the Florida Senate
Why is Lara Trump being considered to replace Marco Rubio in the Senate?
Lara Trump is being considered to replace Marco Rubio due to her relationship with President-elect Donald Trump, who supports her candidacy. Moreover, her recent resignation as vice chair of the Republican National Committee and her ambition to pursue a political career contribute to her consideration for the position.
What is the process for selecting Marco Rubio's successor in the Florida Senate?
The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, has the authority to appoint an interim successor to the Senate until a special election is held in 2026. The process involves a candidate pre-selection, evaluation, and interviews, with a decision anticipated in January 2025.
What other candidates are being considered to replace Marco Rubio?
In addition to Lara Trump, other potential candidates include Jeanette Núñez, Ashley Moody, José Oliva, Laurel Lee, and James Uthmeier, who are prominent figures within the Florida Republican Party and have experience in public administration.
How does Marco Rubio's departure from the U.S. Senate affect things?
Marco Rubio's departure would leave one of the Republican Senate seats vacant, potentially altering the current composition of 51 Republicans and 49 Democrats. The successor appointed by DeSantis could impact the political and legislative dynamics of the Senate.
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