Rumors swirl in political circles like leaves in a windstorm, especially when the topic is the looming Senate vacancy after Marco Rubio’s promotion to Secretary of State. As expected, the speculation turned toward Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump and co-chair of the Republican National Committee. Many in the Trump loyalist camp echoed her potential candidacy with wild enthusiasm, but Governor Ron DeSantis has other ideas—ones that don’t include her name.
While Lara Trump has made her case known, boasting about her experience at the RNC and her desire to serve Florida in a bigger capacity, DeSantis appears to be keeping his options open. He’s on a mission to select someone who embodies the robust conservative principles and has a proven track record—qualities that are essential for the Republican Party’s agenda moving forward. It doesn’t take a political savant to connect the dots: Lara Trump’s lack of direct legislative experience likely knocks her out of the running.
Lara Trump on being appointed to the U.S. Senate: “If this is something I'm asked to do, I would seriously consider it. But I have yet to hear from Governor DeSantis, so we'll see what happens." pic.twitter.com/ACemefXB2q
— Matt Margolis (@mattmargolis) November 18, 2024
Her fans might scream betrayal, shouting disloyalty as they wave their Trump flags, but this decision is rooted in practicality rather than personal sentiments. Appointing Lara Trump could very well be seen as a controversial move at best, given her impressive, but non-legislative, background. DeSantis clearly understands the importance of continuity in the Republican National Committee, especially with the sacred mission of upholding Trump’s election mandate. The responsibilities of the Senate are weighty enough without adding a newbie to the mix.
Moreover, for Donald Trump himself, having Lara in the RNC is a strategic move. Her contributions bolster party operations at a crucial time, and swapping her out for an untested position in the Senate could disrupt that momentum. While some may lament the idea of keeping the Trump name out of the Senate, it makes sense to keep her where she is making tangible impacts. The RNC needs her steady hand, not another rookie stumbling through votes and legislative maneuvering.
Lara Trump may want that Senate seat, and some folks may want to see her in it, but DeSantis is firmly looking to the future of the GOP. It’s not about loyalty; it’s about ensuring the party stays strong and effective in today’s political climate. By keeping Lara Trump where she is, DeSantis is not only shoring up the party’s leadership but also ensuring that they can take bold steps toward reversing the nation’s fiscal decline and strengthening border security. A senator is only as good as their ability to deliver results, and right now, that delivery is best happening from the RNC.