Listen To Story Above
In recent days, there has been notable activity at Mar-a-Lago, where potential candidates for J.D. Vance’s soon-to-be-vacant Ohio Senate seat were seen mingling. The position will open up when Vance assumes his role alongside President-elect Trump in the coming month.
Fox News reported that Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who bears the responsibility of selecting Vance’s replacement, was present at Trump’s resort alongside Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted. The timing is particularly crucial as the new Senate’s swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for January 3, necessitating DeWine’s decision within the coming weeks.
Potential Vance Senate replacement travels to Mar-a-Lago as speculation on filling seat intensifies
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine traveled to Trump's Florida home with fellow Republican Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, who is believed to be a top candidate to replace Vancehttps://t.co/c2UX0kbvGS
— Steve Gruber (@stevegrubershow) December 21, 2024
According to network sources, Husted has emerged as a leading candidate for the position. However, the selection process has caused unease among Trump’s supporters, given DeWine’s well-documented reservations about the incoming president.
The relationship between Trump and DeWine has been marked by political discord, particularly evident in their opposing endorsements during both the 2022 and 2024 Senate primaries. Despite DeWine’s choices, Trump’s preferred candidates ultimately prevailed in both instances.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine takes Jon Husted to Mar-a-Lago as possible JD Vance Senate replacement
– There is significant speculation that Jon Husted might be appointed to replace JD Vance in the U.S. Senate.
– The decision lies with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who has the… pic.twitter.com/bOoVf4l3WT
— Doug Billings (@DougBillings) December 21, 2024
Political analysts suggest that DeWine, approaching the sunset of his political career, might favor appointing a moderate candidate such as State Senator Matt Dolan, who comes from the prominent Dolan family lineage, rather than selecting someone aligned with the MAGA movement like Vance.
The list of potential candidates under consideration also includes Attorney Mehek Cooke, current Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, former Ohio GOP Chair Jane Timken, and Representative Mike Carey.
