Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially appointed state Attorney General Ashley Moody to the U.S. Senate, filling the vacancy created by Senator Marco Rubio, who was selected by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as secretary of state. This decision is expected to have significant implications for the Republican landscape in Florida.
Moody, 49, a prominent ally of DeSantis, has garnered attention for her staunch legal battles against the Biden administration. She rose to prominence following her successful elections for attorney general in 2018 and her re-election in 2022, although term limits prevent her from seeking a third consecutive term in that position.
Her appointment sets a record for Republican women in the Senate, as her addition will bring the total number of GOP female senators to ten. Moody will be required to run in a special election in 2026 to maintain her position for the remaining two years of Rubio’s term, facing potential primary challenges from figures like Reps. Kat Cammack and Cory Mills, both of whom have expressed interest in the seat.
DeSantis’ choice reflects his preference for candidates who align with hardline Republican policies, particularly on immigration, as he has indicated a desire for a senator who supports reforms to the H-1B visa program.
Throughout her tenure as attorney general, Moody has taken on several high-profile cases, including a lawsuit against the Justice Department concerning Florida’s investigation into an assassination attempt on Trump. She argues that her state should not be hindered in its inquiries regarding state law crimes, a stance that aligns with DeSantis’ criticisms of federal interference.
The political landscape in Florida is poised for change as this appointment reshuffles DeSantis’ cabinet. James Uthmeier, DeSantis’ chief of staff, is anticipated to step into Moody’s former role, indicating a potential shift in strategy and governance.
With her appointment to the Senate, Moody not only marks a historic milestone for Republican women but also sets the stage for an evolving political narrative in Florida, where the dynamics of party allegiance and future elections will be closely watched. This could be a hopeful development, suggesting a continued emphasis on policies that resonate with conservative voters statewide.