Florida’s Attorney General to replace Marco Rubio following his expected confirmation as Secretary of State

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Thursday his decision to appoint state Attorney General Ashley Moody to the U.S. Senate, pending Senator Marco Rubio’s expected confirmation as President-elect Donald Trump’s Secretary of State. Rubio, a two-term senator, is widely anticipated to step down after Trump’s inauguration, making way for Moody’s appointment.

Moody, who has served as Florida’s attorney general since 2019, has been a key political ally of DeSantis, often collaborating on high-profile legal challenges and conservative policy initiatives.

Her alignment with DeSantis on issues such as law enforcement support, immigration enforcement, and state autonomy has solidified her as a prominent figure in Florida’s political landscape.

DeSantis praised Moody’s qualifications and commitment to public service, stating she would bring a “principled, conservative voice” to Washington, D.C. Moody’s appointment would mark a continuation of the state’s GOP leadership in the Senate, reinforcing the Republican majority ahead of Trump’s administration taking office.

Rubio’s departure comes as Trump assembles a Cabinet filled with loyalists and prominent conservatives. His selection as Secretary of State underscores Trump’s focus on experienced political figures in key diplomatic roles.

Moody’s appointment to the Senate, if confirmed, would likely shape legislative debates on issues ranging from judicial reform to national security.