Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has chosen Attorney General Ashley Moody as the forthcoming U.S. Senator from Florida.
According to Fox News, Moody's nomination comes in anticipation of Senator Marco Rubio's confirmed departure to serve as Secretary of State under the upcoming Trump administration.
Governor DeSantis expressed that a detailed search process led to the selection of Moody, emphasizing her proven record in delivering on conservative priorities in the state. He announced this decision in a press briefing, highlighting the rigorous criteria used to evaluate potential candidates for Rubio's successor.
Senator Marco Rubio is likely to resign soon as he awaits confirmation as the Secretary of State in President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet. This has opened the door for Governor DeSantis to appoint a replacement who aligns closely with his administration's goals.
The Governor praised Senator Rubio for his contributions to the Senate and is optimistic about his future influence as Secretary of State, stating, “I think he will serve the country ably in his new role.”
Initial speculation about Rubio’s replacement included endorsements for Lara Trump, but following her withdrawal from contention, attention shifted to other prominent Florida Republicans.
Ashley Moody has served as Florida's Attorney General, where her initiatives have often mirrored the priorities of Governor DeSantis. Taking on the new role, she vows to maintain her diligent approach, applying the same fervor and dedication to the Senate as she did in her state role.
During the announcement, Governor DeSantis said:
So this is something that I thought about long and hard. We did a lot of research. We got a number of great candidates throughout the state of Florida, and many of them, I think, could have done a good job. But the final criteria I used was because you can say all those things and say you stand for it — I wanted somebody with a demonstrated record of delivering results on those important issues. Talk is cheap. We need people that have demonstrated fidelity to these principles with their actions. So that is why today I'm proud to announce that I am selecting our Attorney General, Ashley Moody, to serve as our next U.S. senator.
Senator Rick Scott has shown support for Moody, citing her effective track record as Attorney General and her potential to do well in the federal legislature. His endorsement via social media celebrated her achievements and welcomed her to the Senate.
Ashley Moody remarked on her dedication to the role, following her acceptance of the appointment. “Thank you so much. I will bring the same persistence and passion and tenacity as a United States senator that I have brought as Florida's Attorney General,” she declared. She further explained her previous focus, emphasizing her work against federal overreach and commitment to state rights.
Moody told "FOX and Friends First" about her resolve to resist Washington's interference and to focus on Florida’s priorities, portraying her role as a calling rather than just a position.
Governor DeSantis has scheduled Moody's official Senate appointment for the afternoon of January 20, aiming to facilitate a smooth transition during the presidential inauguration ceremonies.
This appointment marks an important moment in Florida politics, reaffirming the state’s conservative agenda amid national changes. Ashley Moody's success as Attorney General and her new role in the Senate could dramatically shape Florida's legal and political landscape in years to come.
