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Lara Trump withdraws from proposal to replace Rubio in US Senate

Lara Trump withdraws from proposal to replace Rubio in US Senate

By Jasper Ward

(Reuters) – Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President-elect Donald Trump, announced on Saturday that she had withdrawn her name from consideration to replace outgoing U.S. Senator Marco Rubio.

Rubio was chosen by Trump to serve as secretary of state. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will choose a replacement for Rubio, who is expected to resign as senator when Trump takes office on January 20.

There was speculation that Lara Trump, who served as co-chair of the Republican National Committee ahead of the 2024 election, would succeed Rubio in the Senate.

However, in an article on X, Trump said she decided to step down “after an incredible amount of reflection, contemplation and encouragement from so many people.”

“I could not have been more honored to serve as co-chair of the RNC in the highest-stakes election of our lifetime, and I am truly humbled by the incredible support I have received from the people of our country, and here in the great state of Florida,” she said.

Trump is married to Eric Trump, the son of Donald Trump.

She said she had a “big announcement” to share in January, but did not provide details. Trump said she remains passionate about public service and looks forward to serving again in the future.

While noting that there was already strong interest from potential candidates, DeSantis said last month that a selection would likely be made by early January.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Rod Nickel)