Who Could Replace Marco Rubio as Florida Senator? 7 Potential Contenders

Newsweek ^ | Nov 12, 2024

[CondoleezzaProtege]

In Florida, the governor appoints an interim replacement for vacant U.S. Senate seats, giving Ron DeSantis the authority to choose Rubio's successor...

Here are seven potential replacements:

Jeanette Nuñez- Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez has a strong background in health care administration and a track record in the Florida House. She is a strong ally of DeSantis, and, like Rubio, is Cuban American.

Byron Donalds- U.S. Representative Byron Donalds from Florida's 19th District has gained national attention as a conservative voice and strong Trump ally. During the campaign, Donalds appeared on many news shows acting as a surrogate for Trump.

Matt Gaetz- U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz is a high-profile Trump supporter from Florida's 1st District with a strong following among conservative voters. Known for his vocal defense of MAGA conservative policies, Gaetz arguably has the largest national profile of any of the candidates.

Ashley Moody- As Florida's attorney general, Ashley Moody has led on issues like immigration enforcement and public safety. Her legal expertise and close work with DeSantis on key initiatives make her a logical choice to step into the role.

Wilton Simpson- Florida's commissioner of agriculture and former state Senate president, Wilton Simpson has served in Florida's state government since 2012. He has been the state's commissioner of agriculture since 2023.

James Uthmeier- James Uthmeier, chief of staff to DeSantis, has played a central role in executing the governor's agenda. Although he has stayed behind the scenes, Uthmeier's policy expertise and close relationship with DeSantis could make him an effective, though less traditional, choice for the Senate.

José Oliva- Former speaker of the Florida House, José Oliva is a respected figure in Florida politics with a conservative track record on business and government reform. His leadership experience and statewide connections make him a serious contender to replace Rubio.

[DownThe405]

I like Lara as well but we need to be honest about the fact that while she’s been a vast improvement as RNC chair over Ronna, we have several senate seats being STOLEN by the crooked dems right under her nose while she is doing interviews all over the place on TV.

I don’t doubt Lara could make a fine senator one day, but if that’s the plan for the future she should focus on her home state of NC which is rife with election corruption and a RINO senator in Thom Tillis.

[MayflowerMadam]

Yes! She needs to do her job at the RNC. If she’s appointed as Senator, I’ll be very disappointed in the system.