DeSantis’ Critical 2028 Play: Will He Choose Lara Trump for Florida’s Senate Seat or Go with His Own Choice?

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has made it clear that he is in no rush to reveal his choice, opting for a deliberate vetting process throughout December.

“The governor will be conducting a thorough vetting process and interview process in December that will involve several candidates,” a DeSantis adviser told NBC News.

“He’s not in a hurry to make an important decision.”

The final decision is expected by early January.

Two potential strategies have dominated discussions.

One involves appointing a placeholder to temporarily hold the seat, preserving DeSantis’ own options for a Senate bid in 2026 ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run.

However, insiders suggest the Florida Governor has ruled out appointing himself, signaling his focus remains on Florida and national aspirations beyond the Senate.

“The governor is not looking for a placeholder and seems unlikely to pursue the Senate himself,” a Florida Republican close to DeSantis’ team said.

Lara Trump’s Rising Prospects

The speculation surrounding the Senate appointment has intensified with the potential candidature of Lara Trump, the daughter-in-law of the President-elect and co-chair of the Republican National Committee.

Several influential figures in Trump’s circle, including Elon Musk, have endorsed her candidacy, heightening the political stakes for DeSantis.

Lara Trump has not shied away from the attention, stating, “If I am tapped to serve in another capacity, it truly would be my honor,” she told Fox News over the weekend.

“I have not been asked yet, but I certainly would strongly consider it if it is presented to me.”

Her potential appointment underscores the delicate relationship between the Florida governor and Trump.

Once close allies, the two men experienced a public fallout during the 2024 GOP primaries.

However, with the 2028 presidential race on the horizon, the Florida governor must weigh the risks of opposing Trump’s wishes against maintaining his political independence.

“Lara Trump or not Lara Trump, that’s the biggest question for him at this point,” a longtime Florida Republican and DeSantis ally said.

“Clearly Trump and his world wants Lara Trump, but does he [DeSantis] do that? Will he cave? It’s unclear.”

DeSantis’ Choice: Weighing Loyalty vs. Strategy

Appointing Lara Trump could strengthen DeSantis’ standing with Trump’s loyal base, potentially smoothing the path for another presidential bid.

On the other hand, bypassing her for a less controversial candidate may bolster his image as a governor focused on Florida’s governance, rather than national political gamesmanship.

“It colors everything,” a Florida operative close to DeSantis said.

“If you believe it is important to not cross Trump, and I think most would agree with that, then all these things have to be viewed through that.”

Other Contenders in the Mix

If DeSantis decides against Lara Trump, a slate of well-known Florida Republicans remains under consideration.

Names floated include Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and DeSantis’ chief of staff James Uthmeier.

Moody is particularly notable, as her potential move to the Senate could open a path for Uthmeier to succeed her as Attorney General, a position he reportedly covets.

“He’s been pretty open about it, and it’s not a terribly well-kept secret,” a longtime Florida lobbyist said of Uthmeier.

“No idea if he will get there, but it’s clear that’s where he would like to go.”

A Pivotal Moment for DeSantis

This Senate appointment will be a defining moment for DeSantis as he balances the demands of governing Florida with the strategic calculations of his broader political ambitions.

Whether he aligns with Trump or carves out a more independent path will undoubtedly shape the political landscape leading into 2028.

For now, the governor holds his cards close, with the nation watching to see which direction he chooses.

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