Lara Trump is withdrawing her name from consideration for a Florida Senate seat

Lara Trump, the daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, has withdrawn her name from consideration for a seat in the Senate.

He stepped down this month as chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), prompting speculation that he might replace outgoing Senator Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, whom Trump nominated as secretary of state.

But writing to X, he said he had removed himself from the idea “after much thought, reflection, and encouragement from many”.

He said he wishes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis luck in choosing a successor to serve out the remainder of Rubio’s six-year term, which ends in 2026.

In her message to X on Saturday, Lara Trump said: “I couldn’t be more honored to serve as RNC chair during the most important election of our lifetime and I am humbled by the incredible support I have been shown by the people of my country, and here in the great state of Florida.”

He said he has a big announcement to share in January, without giving more details.

Lara Trump was named co-chair of the RNC in March, strengthening her father-in-law’s influence in the party as he campaigns for the presidency.

Alongside her husband, Trump’s son, Eric, and her older brother, Don Jr, she has emerged as one of the top leaders of the Republican presidential campaign heading into the election.