TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Residents of Florida can expect to learn about their next U.S. senator early in January, as Republican Governor Ron DeSantis shared on Monday.

This follows the news that Florida’s senior Senator Marco Rubio has been selected as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of State, pending confirmation from his Senate peers. Under both U.S. Constitution and state regulations, it is the governor’s responsibility to appoint a replacement in the Senate, while the electorate has the authority to fill vacancies in the House of Representatives.

Governor DeSantis is currently reviewing potential candidates and has started “preliminary vetting,” responding to significant interest expressed by various individuals, as he announced via social media. In the weeks ahead, he intends to conduct more rigorous evaluations and interviews with candidates.

DeSantis emphasized on X that Florida deserves a senator who can assist President Trump in fulfilling his mandate, particularly in areas such as immigration, border security, and navigating the complex bureaucratic landscape. He is looking for someone rooted in conservative values with a demonstrable history of achievement.

There is mounting pressure from some Florida Republicans for DeSantis to consider Lara Trump for the role, a suggestion supported by Florida Senator Rick Scott, who has publicly endorsed her. Lara Trump, a co-chair of the Republican National Committee, resides in Palm Beach County with her husband Eric Trump.

In a recent appearance on Fox News, Lara Trump remarked, “If I am tapped to serve in another capacity, it truly would be my honor. I have not been asked yet, but I certainly would strongly consider it if it is presented to me.”

Political analysts within the Republican party suggest that appointing a member of the president-elect’s family could be a strategic move by DeSantis to strengthen ties, particularly as he assesses his own ambitions within the GOP. This could also enhance Florida’s connection to the incoming administration.

Other potential candidates being discussed include Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, Attorney General Ashley Moody, and former Florida House Speaker Paul Renner.

If Senator Rubio receives confirmation, the new appointee would serve a duration of two years, until the next scheduled election in 2026, when the seat will again be up for contest.