DeSantis to Name Rubio's Senate Replacement, Focusing on H-1B Visa Stance, Around Trump's Inauguration

Jan 8, 2025, 03:01 PM

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has indicated that he will take additional time to decide on a replacement for U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, who is set to resign to become Secretary of State under President-elect Donald Trump. DeSantis plans to announce his choice around the time of Trump's inauguration on January 20. The Governor has emphasized that his appointee will need to be strong on immigration enforcement, particularly regarding the H-1B visa program, to ensure it does not undermine American workers. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is considered a frontrunner for the position. Other potential candidates include Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez, Chief of Staff James Uthmeier, and others. Rubio's term is scheduled to end in 2028, but the appointed senator will serve until an election in 2026.