Lara Trump withdraws bid to replace outgoing Florida senator Marco Rubio

Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, said on Saturday she had removed her name from consideration to replace the outgoing US senator Marco Rubio.

Rubio has been tapped by Trump to serve as secretary of state. The Florida governor, Ron DeSantis, will pick a replacement for Rubio, who is expected to resign as senator when Trump takes office on 20 January.

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

However, in a post on X, she said she had decided to remove herself from consideration “after an incredible amount of thought, contemplation, and encouragement from so many”.

“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 said.

Trump is married to Eric Trump, Donald Trump’s son.

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

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