Trump's Cabinet moves hand Ron DeSantis a gift — but possibly with strings attached
Ron DeSantis will have a chance to put another stamp on state politics with a big appointment if Marco Rubio becomes secretary of state. But one major question hangs over that opportunity: How badly does Donald Trump want his daughter-in-law, Lara, to become a U.S. senator?
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will have a chance to put another stamp on state politics with a big appointment if Sen. Marco Rubio becomes secretary of state. But one major question hangs over that opportunity: How badly does President-elect Donald Trump want his daughter-in-law, Lara, to become a U.S. senator?
DeSantis, like any Florida governor, has the ability to unilaterally appoint the person who would fill a vacant Senate seat, which may come into play following Monday's news of Trump's expected nomination of Rubio to lead the State Department. Trump could still change his mind, cautioned three sources familiar with the selection process, who said the decision wouldn't be final until the president-elect makes a formal announcement.
But if Rubio's Senate seat becomes open, there is little doubt DeSantis will face at least some pressure from Trump’s team to appoint a candidate they want, which would almost certainly be Lara Trump, according to seven people tracking deliberations around the potential vacancy.
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DeSantis does not have to listen to Trump, after the two men saw their relationship fray amid DeSantis' national rise and his failed 2024 presidential campaign. But the president-elect carried Florida by nearly 13 points this year, giving Trump a shot of political capital and at least the perception of leverage.“I think that pick makes a lot of sense and would be great for Florida,” said a Trump ally who acknowledged there is interest from Trump world in seeing DeSantis appoint Lara Trump. “He had a great night last Tuesday. He won by huge margins, including in Florida. I think it’s pretty clear the move would not be controversial with Florida Republicans.”
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