Well, it seems the political soap opera of the Trump era just added another twist, and this time, it’s a classy exit by Lara Trump. The former RNC co-chair announced on Saturday night that she’s withdrawing her name from consideration for Marco Rubio’s soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat in Florida. Rubio, of course, has been tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of State in his incoming administration—a role that will surely keep him busy on the world stage.
In her statement, Lara Trump struck a tone of gratitude and humility, emphasizing the incredible support she’s received from Floridians and conservatives nationwide. She called her time as RNC co-chair an honor, especially during what she described as “the most high-stakes election of our lifetime.” And let’s not downplay that: Lara Trump has been a formidable player in Republican politics, helping to galvanize the base during a critical time for the GOP.
“After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate,” she posted to X.
“I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our lifetime and I’m truly humbled by the unbelievable support shown to me by the people of our country, and here in the great state of Florida,” she continued. “I have read so many of your kind messages and I cannot thank you enough.”
After an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many, I have decided to remove my name from consideration for the United States Senate.
I could not have been more honored to serve as RNC co-chair during the most high-stakes election of our… https://t.co/ARdvTQki9N
— Lara Trump (@LaraLeaTrump) December 21, 2024
Speculation about her potential Senate run had been brewing for weeks, with many viewing her as a strong contender. After all, the Trump name still carries significant weight in Florida, a state that has become a Republican stronghold in recent elections. However, in a move that underscores her political savvy, Lara Trump chose to bow out gracefully, leaving the decision in the hands of Governor Ron DeSantis.
DeSantis, for his part, now has a major choice to make. Whoever he appoints will not only have to fill Rubio’s shoes but also represent a state that has become a linchpin in national politics. The stakes are high, but Lara Trump’s endorsement of DeSantis’s judgment shows there’s no bad blood here. If anything, it’s a reminder that while the Trump-DeSantis dynamic can be contentious on the national stage, it’s not all fireworks and feuds.
What’s particularly intriguing is Lara Trump’s promise of a “big announcement” next month. While she’s keeping her cards close to her chest, it’s clear she’s not stepping away from the public eye anytime soon. Whether she’s planning another political role, a new initiative, or something entirely unexpected, it’s safe to say we haven’t heard the last of her. Lara Trump knows how to keep people guessing—and how to stay relevant in a crowded political landscape.
And then there’s Donald Trump, who weighed in on the matter with his usual blend of candor and deference. Asked whether he thought DeSantis would pick Lara for the Senate seat, Trump brushed off the speculation, saying, “Ron’s doing a good job, that’s his choice—nothing to do with me.” It’s a rare moment of detachment from the president-elect, who’s not exactly known for staying out of the spotlight. But it also signals a level of trust in DeSantis’s leadership, even as their political ambitions sometimes overlap.
Lara Trump’s decision is a win-win for her and the Republican Party. By stepping aside now, she avoids the pitfalls of a potentially divisive appointment process while keeping her options wide open for future endeavors. For Florida Republicans, it’s a signal that the party remains united as it gears up for another term of GOP leadership in Washington.
As we wait for her next move, one thing is certain: Lara Trump isn’t done making waves in Republican politics. She’s simply taking the long view, and knowing the Trump playbook, the next act is sure to be just as captivating as the last.
