Mike DeWine is smiling in formal suite
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, along with Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, recently visited President-elect Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence as the decision on filling Vice President-elect JD Vance’s Ohio Senate seat draws closer. DeWine is tasked with selecting a Republican to fill the Senate seat until a special election in November 2026, determining the rest of Vance’s term until 2028.
A final decision on the Senate appointment is expected in the coming weeks before the new Congress is sworn in on Jan. 3. DeWine’s office has not yet commented on the matter, but his spokesperson previously mentioned that the Governor is looking for a qualified candidate who can earn the trust of Ohio voters for another term.
Among the potential candidates for the Senate appointment are attorney Mehek Cooke, Ohio’s Republican Secretary of State Frank LaRose, former Ohio GOP Chair Jane Timken, Rep. Mike Carey, and others. Cooke expressed support for Husted as a potential pick, highlighting his experience and commitment to Ohio’s interests.
Potential candidates include Mehek Cooke, Frank LaRose, Jane Timken, and Mike Carey.
Decision expected before new Congress is sworn in on Jan. 3.
An endorsement from Trump and Vance could play a crucial role in the appointment process, given their popularity in Ohio. Husted, who has served as Ohio’s lieutenant governor since 2019, is also considered a potential candidate for the governorship to succeed DeWine.
While Husted has not confirmed his intentions regarding the Senate appointment, he has indicated that he plans to reveal his future plans early next year. The interest of former presidential candidate Vivek Ramawamy in the governorship race has reportedly influenced some potential candidates to reassess their options.
