Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has been appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to fill the Senate seat vacated by Marco Rubio, who is anticipated to be confirmed as secretary of state. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Moody will become only the second woman to serve as a senator from Florida, following Paula Hawkins, who held office in the 1980s.
Moody's Background and Political Experience
Ashley Moody, aged 49, is currently in her second term as Florida's attorney general, a position she first assumed in 2018 after succeeding Pam Bondi. Moody was re-elected in 2022 with a substantial margin, winning by 21 points in a state that is increasingly leaning Republican. Her background includes a decade of service as a Hillsborough County circuit judge and experience as a federal prosecutor. Moody's family has a history in the judiciary, with her father and brother both having held significant judicial positions.
Statements and Vision for the Senate
During a press conference in Orlando, Moody expressed her commitment to bringing the same dedication to the Senate that she demonstrated as attorney general. She acknowledged the challenges of working in Washington, D.C., particularly the prevailing political deadlock. However, she emphasized the importance of having individuals with a strong commitment to the nation's founding principles in Congress, stating that avoiding service due to the political climate would only perpetuate the existing issues.
Moody also highlighted her intention to advocate for the "America First" agenda championed by former President Donald Trump, indicating her alignment with the Republican Party's priorities.
Republican Support and Future Elections
Her appointment has garnered support from prominent Republican figures, including South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, who praised Moody as a "proven conservative fighter." Moody's track record as attorney general includes a focus on border security and public safety, as well as defending the rights of Floridians. Additionally, she is one of the few sitting senators with school-age children, which she believes provides her with a unique perspective on family-related issues.
Florida is set to hold a special election in 2026 to determine who will complete the remaining two years of Rubio's term. While Moody is a potential candidate for this election, she may face competition from within her party, including Republican Representative Cory Mills, who has indicated his intention to run for the seat.
Controversial Actions as Attorney General
Moody's tenure as attorney general has not been without controversy. She was involved in legal actions challenging the results of the 2020 presidential election and the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, she led an investigation into allegations that FEMA had discriminated against Trump supporters in disaster relief efforts, a claim that resulted in public scrutiny and the termination of a FEMA official.
Conclusion
Ashley Moody's appointment to the U.S. Senate represents a significant development in Florida's political landscape, particularly as it adds to the representation of women in government. Her experience as attorney general and her alignment with conservative values position her as a notable figure within the Republican Party. As the state prepares for the upcoming special election, Moody's potential candidacy may shape the future of Florida's representation in the Senate, reflecting broader trends within the party and the ongoing political dynamics in Washington.