Lara Trump is eyeing a potential leap into the U.S. Senate, with her name being floated as a leading contender to fill the Florida seat being vacated by Senator Marco Rubio. The idea has gained traction following reports that President-elect Donald Trump personally advocated for her candidacy in a conversation with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump urged DeSantis to consider Lara for the role as Rubio transitions to become Secretary of State under the new administration. Rubio is expected to be confirmed by the Republican-controlled Senate early next year, paving the way for DeSantis to appoint his replacement.
If Lara Trump secures the appointment, it would mark a significant milestone in her rapid ascent within the political sphere.
Lara Trump, 42, signaled her political ambitions just days ago by stepping down as co-chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), a position she took on earlier this year. Her leadership was instrumental in helping her father-in-law return to the White House, solidifying her reputation as a rising GOP star.
In a recent interview with Fox News, she expressed confidence in her credentials. “I would say that my track record speaks for itself. Maybe having the last name Trump is just a little bit extra. I’m always happy to have it,” she said.
Lara Trump also told the Associated Press that running for the Senate is “something I would seriously consider.”
Three years ago, Lara and her husband, Eric Trump, relocated to Florida, a move that now appears strategic as she builds her political career. Notably, she previously considered running for Senate in her native North Carolina but ultimately chose not to pursue that path.
As Rubio transitions to his new role, DeSantis holds the authority to appoint an interim senator until a special election is held in 2026. Florida’s Republican bench is deep, and the governor is reportedly considering several candidates, including Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody.
While DeSantis has an independent streak, sources close to him acknowledge that appointing Lara Trump could help repair his relationship with the president-elect. The two clashed earlier this year during the Republican presidential primaries, with Trump repeatedly attacking DeSantis for perceived disloyalty. However, their relationship has reportedly improved following a spring meeting brokered by mutual ally Steve Witkoff.
DeSantis is also rumored to be under consideration for a cabinet position as Secretary of Defense if Trump’s current nominee, Pete Hegseth, faces significant opposition. Some within DeSantis’s circle worry that appointing Lara Trump to the Senate while accepting a cabinet role could give the impression of political dealmaking.
Nevertheless, sources deny any quid pro quo, emphasizing that DeSantis’s decisions will be based on merit.
Lara Trump’s potential Senate appointment has drawn endorsements from high-profile figures. Billionaire Elon Musk and his mother, Maye Musk, have voiced their support. Maye tweeted, “The Senate is an old man’s club. We desperately need a smart, young, outspoken woman who will reveal their secrets.”
Florida Senator Rick Scott, a former governor, has also backed Lara Trump, citing her effective leadership as RNC co-chair.
Her candidacy could energize younger voters and strengthen the GOP’s appeal in Florida, a critical swing state.
If selected, Lara Trump’s appointment could symbolize a new era of Trump-aligned politics in the Senate. Her outspoken style and strong media presence would likely make her a prominent figure in Washington, especially as President-elect Trump prepares to take office.
On the other hand, DeSantis’s decision carries political risks. Balancing his ambitions with the expectations of Trump’s loyal base and Florida’s Republican establishment will require careful calculation.
DeSantis is expected to announce his decision by early January, and insiders suggest that Lara Trump’s name has moved from a speculative idea to a serious possibility.
Lara Trump’s potential rise to the Senate reflects the expanding influence of the Trump family in American politics. From Donald Trump’s presidency to Ivanka Trump’s role as a senior advisor and now Lara’s possible Senate bid, the family continues to wield significant political power.
As the nation watches Florida closely, Lara Trump’s possible appointment signals more than just a personnel decision—it highlights the ongoing reshaping of the Republican Party under Trump’s leadership.
For now, the final decision rests with DeSantis. Whether he chooses to align closely with Trump by appointing Lara or charts an independent course, his choice will have lasting implications for both Florida and the nation’s political landscape.
