A potential Senate appointment has thrust Donald Trump's daughter-in-law into Florida's political spotlight amid Marco Rubio's expected departure to join the incoming administration.
According to Daily Mail, a new J.L. Partners poll reveals that 59 percent of Republican voters support Lara Trump's elevation to fill Marco Rubio's Senate seat, with 36 percent expressing strong support for the move.
The poll, which surveyed 1,006 registered voters, indicates a more divided response among the broader electorate, with 33 percent supporting Trump's potential appointment and 30 percent opposing it.
The decision ultimately rests with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has committed to announcing his choice by early January.
The governor's choice carries significant political implications as he navigates his relationship with the incoming Trump administration.
DeSantis must balance various factors, including local political dynamics and his previous rivalry with Donald Trump during the presidential primary.
James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners, offered his analysis of the polling data, stating:
Republican voters are with the Trumps and they believe Lara Trump should be the Senate replacement in Florida. Looking at these data, there is little to no chance of a backlash amongst the voters.
The situation has become more intricate with reports suggesting DeSantis himself might be considered for the position of defense secretary in the Trump administration, following complications with the original nominee Pete Hegseth.
Several local political figures remain in contention for the Senate appointment. Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, and former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner are among the potential candidates being discussed.
Senator Rick Scott has publicly endorsed Lara Trump's candidacy, expressing his support on social media:
We need more Republicans in Washington who actually represent the Republican Party back home and will be steadfast in their commitment to fulfill the mandate from this election – to Make America Great Again.
Lara Trump has expressed interest in the position while maintaining a measured stance, acknowledging that she has not yet been contacted by Governor DeSantis about the opportunity.
The upcoming Senate appointment represents a crucial political decision that will impact Florida's representation in Congress and the broader Republican Party dynamics. Governor Ron DeSantis must select Rubio's replacement while managing various political considerations and maintaining stability in state leadership.
The decision deadline approaches as DeSantis weighs his options, with Lara Trump emerging as a frontrunner backed by strong Republican voter support. The appointment will fill the remainder of Rubio's term, setting the stage for the 2026 Senate election in Florida.
