MIAMI – Mrs. Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, announced on Dec 21 that she has withdrawn her name from consideration to replace outgoing US Senator Marco Rubio of Florida.
Mr. Rubio, recently selected by President-elect Trump to serve as Secretary of State, is expected to resign from his Senate seat upon Trump’s inauguration on Jan 20. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint Rubio’s replacement, with a decision anticipated in early January.
Speculation had been mounting about Mrs. Trump’s potential candidacy due to her role as co-chairwoman of the Republican National Committee during the pivotal 2024 election. However, in a post on X, she revealed her decision after “an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement.”
“I could not have been more honoured to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our lifetime,” she said, expressing gratitude for the support she received, particularly from Florida residents.
While Mrs. Trump did not elaborate on her next steps, she teased a “big announcement” slated for January, reaffirming her passion for public service and commitment to serving in the future. Governor DeSantis has noted strong interest from various candidates for the Senate seat, signaling that the selection process is well underway.