DeSantis Names Florida AG Ashley Moody to Marco Rubio’s Senate Seat/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has been appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to fill Marco Rubio’s Senate seat after his nomination as Secretary of State by President-elect Donald Trump. Moody, known for her conservative legal battles and statewide popularity, will serve until the 2026 general election. Her appointment marks a significant political shift, leaving key state roles open for DeSantis to fill.
Ashley Moody Appointed to US Senate: Quick Looks
- Historic Appointment: Moody becomes the second woman to represent Florida in the Senate.
- Conservative Credentials: She has defended DeSantis’ agenda, opposing Biden’s policies and abortion rights.
- Career Background: Former prosecutor and judge; elected Attorney General in 2018.
- Political Context: Rubio vacated the seat to become Secretary of State under Trump.
- Vacancies Created: DeSantis will also appoint replacements for Florida’s CFO and Attorney General.
- Next Election: Moody will hold the Senate seat until 2026.
DeSantis Names Florida AG Ashley Moody to Marco Rubio’s Senate Seat
Deep Look
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has been named the replacement for outgoing Senator Marco Rubio, Governor Ron DeSantis announced Thursday. This appointment makes Moody only the second woman to serve Florida in the U.S. Senate, following a career marked by staunch conservatism and unwavering support for DeSantis’ agenda.
Moody’s Path to the Senate
Moody, 48, has served as Florida’s Attorney General since 2018, where she positioned herself as a defender of conservative values. Before her time in state office, Moody worked as a federal prosecutor and served as a circuit judge in Hillsborough County. Her career has been defined by a commitment to public safety and a willingness to take on national issues.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Moody gained national attention by calling for accountability from China regarding the outbreak and aligning herself with DeSantis on his pandemic policies. As Attorney General, she has also joined lawsuits challenging Biden administration policies, including student loan forgiveness, immigration enforcement changes, and vaccine mandates.
DeSantis praised Moody’s record at an Orlando press conference, stating, “She has acted time and time again to support the values that we all share.”
Political Implications
Moody will take over the seat left vacant by Marco Rubio, who was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of State. Her Senate term will last until the next general election in 2026, when voters will decide who fills the seat long-term.
The appointment also creates a key vacancy in Florida’s Cabinet, giving DeSantis another opportunity to shape the state’s political landscape. In addition to replacing Moody, the governor will appoint a new Chief Financial Officer, as Jimmy Patronis plans to run for former Rep. Matt Gaetz’s congressional seat.
Controversial Decisions
Moody’s career has not been without controversy. She was a vocal opponent of a 2024 ballot measure to protect abortion rights in Florida, calling the effort a “war” against conservative values. Despite her opposition, the measure went to a vote but failed to achieve the 60% approval needed to pass.
She also faced criticism for supporting Trump-backed lawsuits aimed at overturning the 2020 presidential election results. Nonetheless, her staunch conservative stance has made her a favorite among Republican voters in Florida.
Mixed Reactions
While Moody’s appointment has garnered praise from Republican leaders, including State Sen. Joe Gruters, a Trump ally, some conservatives had pushed for other candidates, such as Lara Trump, the president-elect’s daughter-in-law. Lara Trump, however, withdrew from consideration in December.
Gruters described Moody as “a winner here in Florida,” citing her popularity and commitment to public safety.
Moving Forward
Moody’s appointment to the Senate solidifies her position as a rising star in Republican politics. Her track record and alignment with DeSantis’ policies suggest she will bring a strong conservative voice to the Senate. As Florida prepares for a new political chapter, the ripple effects of her appointment could influence both state and national politics in the years ahead.
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