Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has been appointed to fill Marco Rubio's U.S. Senate seat by Governor Ron DeSantis. Moody, who previously served as the state's top law enforcement officer, is positioning herself within the national spotlight, aligned with Trump and DeSantis. Her appointment is expected to impact the 2026 elections, as she may face challengers for the role. Moody's rise marks a significant moment for women in Florida politics, being only the second woman to represent the state in the Senate after Republican Paula Hawkins. This decision comes as part of a larger political maneuvering within Florida's Republican leadership.