Who will Governor Ron DeSantis choose to succeed Senator Marco Rubio?

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Even as Floridians processed the likelihood of their senior senator being chosen to lead Donald Trump’s State Department, the focus shifted to who would replace Marco Rubio.

While not yet official, a senior source familiar with the next White House’s plans confirms that it’s a “very firm” decision.

Governor Ron DeSantis has a range of options available to him, from lesser-known insiders to state officials who, like him, will reach their term limits in 2026 and are seeking new opportunities.

We explored this question back in July, when Rubio was being considered for Trump’s running mate. An all-Florida ticket was not feasible due to potential Electoral College issues in what was predicted to be a tight race.

Four months later, many of the options remain the same, including a potentially intriguing one: appointing himself.

One drawback to this plan is that DeSantis would face an actual election in 2026, just like he would if he remained in the governor’s office. The next election would be moved up to the midterm cycle.

Although DeSantis previously expressed interest in serving in the White House, he does not believe he could have as much impact as the junior senator alongside Rick Scott.

Another possibility is appointing someone as a temporary placeholder until DeSantis decides to run again. Chief of Staff James Uthmeier could be a candidate for this role.

There is historical precedence for this kind of appointment. Fifteen years ago, former Governor Charlie Crist selected his own chief of staff, George LeMieux, to replace a senator who stepped down midterm.

If DeSantis is looking for a placeholder, it may not turn out as poorly for him as it did for Crist. DeSantis has ruled out a position in the Trump administration and is focused on leading Florida.

Another potential option is DeSantis’ wife, Casey DeSantis, who is heavily involved in policy. However, with three young children and a demanding travel schedule, it may not be the right time for her to take on the role.

There is also a chance that a Florida Cabinet member could be chosen, with Attorney General Ashley Moody being a likely pick due to her close collaboration with DeSantis.

Regardless of who is chosen, the decision will have a significant impact on Florida politics leading up to the next election.