President-elect Donald Trump expressed skepticism on Monday about GOP Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis's appointing his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, to a soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat, despite speculation and support from some Republican circles, Politico reported.
Speaking to reporters at Mar-a-Lago, the president-elect said, "I probably don't [expect that], but I don't know," emphasizing that the decision rests solely with the governor.
The Senate seat is expected to be vacated as Republican Sen. Marco Rubio transitions to secretary of state under Donald Trump's administration.
DeSantis has been actively vetting candidates for the position and is expected to announce his decision by early January.
Donald Trump acknowledged that Lara Trump, a Florida resident for over three years and former co-chair of the Republican National Committee, had been floated as a potential appointee.
However, he noted that she has other career opportunities in consideration.
"She's got so many other things that she's talking about," he remarked, referring to media jobs she is reportedly being offered.
While he praised her as "unbelievable" and "incredible," he deferred to DeSantis' judgment, stating, "Ron is doing a good job. It is his choice, nothing to do with me."
Those candidates reportedly under consideration are Florida Lt. Gov. Jeanette Núñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and former Florida House Speaker José Oliva.
DeSantis plans to finalize his decision before the confirmation process for Rubio's replacement begins after Donald Trump's inauguration.
Lara Trump has expressed interest in the role in media interviews and recently resigned from her position at the RNC. She has garnered support from key Republican Party figures, including Florida Sen. Rick Scott.
The president-elect commended Lara Trump's work alongside RNC Chair Michael Whatley and highlighted her appeal, particularly among women.
"She is so highly respected by women," he said, humorously adding a note about her physical fitness. "Even her workout routines are through the roof. She lifts 150 pounds. I don't know how the hell she does it."
With the decision expected in the coming weeks, the political landscape in Florida remains dynamic as DeSantis weighs his options for filling the high-profile vacancy.