Two Republicans eye Marco Rubio’s Senate seat as concerns about GOP balance in Florida intensify.
At a Glance
- House Republicans Cory Mills and Kat Cammack consider Rubio’s Senate seat as he may join Trump’s Cabinet.
- Governor DeSantis is cautious about impacts on GOP House majority if a member moves to the Senate.
- Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is also a potential candidate for the Senate position.
- Matt Gaetz, despite past controversies, has expressed interest in Rubio’s seat in the future.
Republicans Eye Senate Vacancy
Two House Republicans, Cory Mills and Kat Cammack, have shown interest in the Senate seat expected to be vacated by Sen. Marco Rubio, who is likely to be part of President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet. Both Mills and Cammack are lobbying Governor Ron DeSantis, responsible for appointing Rubio’s replacement. The departure of either could risk the Republican’s slim majority in the U.S. House, a concern for DeSantis.
Governor DeSantis praised Mills and Cammack but emphasized his worry about maintaining a GOP majority. Currently, the House stands delicately balanced at 217-215; a move to the Senate would tip the scales.
https://twitter.com/SenMarcoRubio/highlights
Potential Candidates and Implications
In addition to Mills and Cammack, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is a key contender for the Senate role. Meanwhile, Cory Mills stated, “While I feel I would add value and be better positioned to help [Trump’s] America First agenda, we will have to see what the Governor decides. Either way, it’s an honor to be considered for the Senate.”
The GOP must consider long-term impacts before final decisions. Rubio’s confirmation to the Cabinet is anticipated soon, though his exact resignation timing remains unclear.
Gaetz’s Ambitions and Political Dynamics
Amid these developments, Representative Matt Gaetz hinted at pursuing the Senate seat. “Many have asked which perch I will be fighting from next… Maybe I’ll just run for Marco Rubio’s vacant seat in the United States Senate and join some of those folks,” he stated. His political future could depend heavily on the outcome of ongoing ethics investigations.
Meanwhile, Lara Trump has stepped back from any current Senate appointment considerations, focusing on supporting her state’s political scene. These developments illustrate the complexities within the Florida GOP and their potential implications as the state navigates Rubio’s possible transition.
Sources
1. Gaetz Openly Considers Running for Rubio’s Senate Seat
2. Two House Republicans eye Florida Senate seat being vacated by Rubio
