Florida Rep. Cory Mills has announced his candidacy for Senator Marco Rubio’s seat, sharing details about a recent discussion with Governor Ron DeSantis and outlining his vision for providing “strong leadership” in the U.S. Senate.
In an appearance on Fox & Friends First, Mills revealed he spoke with Gov. DeSantis for an hour after making his announcement. Their discussion covered critical issues, including immigration, border security, economic strategies, judicial appointments, and legislative priorities.
Mills emphasized his commitment to President Donald Trump’s America First platform, highlighting the importance of securing a strong Senate majority to advance conservative policies.
“President Trump has made it clear that he wants a strong Senate and House to implement his America First agenda,” Mills said. “Florida needs strong leadership, and I’ve expressed my commitment to meet those expectations.”
He described the conversation with Gov. DeSantis as productive, with the governor praising their discussion and showing interest in future collaborations. “Governor DeSantis has done an amazing job in Florida, and I appreciated the opportunity to discuss critical issues like border security, economic growth, and judicial appointments,” Mills said.
When asked why he wants to transition from the House to the Senate, Mills underscored the need for fresh energy and a dedication to constitutional conservatism. “We need fighters in the Senate—leaders who understand what the country needs right now and are aligned with President Trump’s agenda,” he said. “It’s time for fresh perspectives to address challenges like restoring economic stability, securing our borders, and upholding constitutional values.”
Mills also emphasized the importance of maintaining and expanding the Senate majority. “Florida deserves a leader who will build on Senator Rubio’s legacy while championing the conservative principles that have made our state a model for the nation,” he said.
Governor DeSantis recently announced he is taking additional time to decide on a temporary replacement for Rubio, who has been tapped by President-elect Trump to serve as secretary of state. The governor plans to make the appointment near Trump’s inauguration on January 20, ensuring the selected candidate aligns with his agenda for immigration enforcement and federal reform.
“I think we’ve got a number of great candidates, but I want to make sure that we know what we’re going to get,” DeSantis said during a press appearance in Tampa. He stressed that the appointee must be strong on critical issues, particularly immigration enforcement and reducing federal bureaucracy.
“If I’m appointing you, I want to know that you’re going to be strong on all these issues,” DeSantis said. “Then you run in ’26 and get elected on your own. But for these next two years, we need someone who can deliver.”
While Rubio’s term officially ends in 2028, the appointee will serve until a special election in 2026. This decision carries significant weight, as the selected candidate will help shape federal policies over the next two years, reflecting DeSantis’ priorities.
Potential candidates for the appointment include:
Attorney General Ashley Moody, known for her strong conservative stance.
Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez, a key figure in DeSantis’ administration.
State Sen. Jay Collins, a military veteran and rising star in Florida politics.
U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, a freshman congressman and vocal supporter of DeSantis’ policies.
James Uthmeier, DeSantis’ chief of staff, instrumental in advancing the governor’s agenda.
DeSantis emphasized the importance of selecting a candidate who will advocate for Florida and align closely with his administration’s vision during their tenure.
