EXCLUSIVE: Major Delays in Filling Marco Rubio’s Senate Seat – Is Ron DeSantis Caving to Trump Pressure?

The buzz surrounding Governor Ron DeSantis continues to build as President-elect Donald Trump hands him the opportunity to appoint a U.S. Senate seat. Amidst all the speculations and expectations, DeSantis is in no rush to unveil his decision before Christmas. With one of Trump’s first major Cabinet picks being Florida Senator Marco Rubio for secretary of state, the focus now shifts to whom DeSantis will choose to fill the vacant seat.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points surrounding this pivotal decision:

1. Thorough Vetting Process: DeSantis’ team is meticulously working through various options for the Senate seat and plans to keep their choice under wraps for at least a month. A comprehensive vetting and interview process will unfold in December, involving multiple candidates before the final selection is made at the start of January.
2. Long-term Vision: While initial assumptions suggested DeSantis might opt for a placeholder, the likelihood of him pursuing the Senate seat in 2026 or appointing himself to the position seems slim. The governor appears to be steering away from the idea of using the Senate seat as a stepping stone for a potential 2028 presidential bid.
3. Trump Dynamics: The decision becomes even more intriguing as DeSantis treads carefully in balancing the expectations of Trump and his political team. The suggestion of appointing Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of the president-elect, adds another layer of complexity to the selection process.
4. 2028 Implications: DeSantis is aware that his decision regarding the Senate appointment could impact his future political aspirations, especially in connection to a potential presidential run in 2028. This consideration adds a strategic element to the decision-making process.

In light of these factors, a diverse range of candidates is being considered for the Senate seat, including Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, former House Speaker Paul Renner, Secretary of State Cord Byrd, former House Speaker Jose Oliva, and DeSantis’ chief of staff James Uthmeier. The choice remains pivotal not just for the immediate political landscape but also for the long-term trajectory of DeSantis’ career.

As DeSantis navigates this crucial decision, the intricate interplay between his allegiance to Trump, his own political ambitions, and the broader implications for his future remain at the forefront. The selection of the next Florida Senator does not just hold significance for the state but also reverberates across national politics, shaping alliances and trajectories in the years to come.