Ashley Moody Sworn In as Florida's New U.S. Senator by DeSantis, Ahead of 2026 Special Election

Jan 21, 2025, 10:45 PM

Ashley Moody, a Plant City Republican, has been sworn in as Florida's new U.S. Senator, filling the seat vacated by Marco Rubio, who was confirmed as Secretary of State. Moody, previously Florida's Attorney General, was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve the next two years of Rubio's term. Her swearing-in ceremony was officiated by Vice President JD Vance, alongside Jon Husted, who was sworn in as Ohio's new U.S. Senator. Moody's appointment comes ahead of a Special Election in 2026 to decide who will serve the final two years of Rubio's term. During her tenure as Attorney General, Moody worked closely with DeSantis, defending his policies in court and taking legal action against Democratic policies at the federal level. She has already begun fundraising for the upcoming election, having been the top vote-getter in Florida in her previous statewide races. DeSantis has indicated that James Uthmeier, his current Chief of Staff, will be appointed to serve the last two years of Moody's term as Attorney General. Notably, DeSantis chose Moody over Lara Trump, former Republican National Committee Co-Chair, for the Senate position.