Trump-Backed Appointees Husted and Moody Secure Smooth Paths to 2026 Senate Races
Trump-Backed Appointees Husted and Moody Secure Smooth Paths to 2026 Senate Races
Ohio Senator Jon Husted and Florida Senator Ashley Moody, appointed to their respective seats following JD Vance and Marco Rubio’s transitions into the Trump administration, are currently experiencing remarkably clear paths to their 2026 special elections.
As of July 2025, neither Husted nor Moody faces a credible Republican primary challenger, a significant departure from the typically contentious GOP Senate races in both states. This political calm is largely attributed to strong fundraising quarters and crucial endorsements. Husted, appointed after Vance became Vice President, secured an early and definitive endorsement from President Donald Trump, which has proven instrumental in clearing his field in Ohio. His campaign reported a robust $2.6 million cash on hand entering July.
Similarly, Ashley Moody, who took over Marco Rubio’s seat as he assumed the role of Secretary of State, has solidified her position by enhancing ties with the Trump political team and amassing a substantial war chest. Her campaign ended June with $2.2 million cash on hand, complemented by a Moody-aligned super PAC that has raised an additional $7 million. Both appointees’ long public service records and financial strength are deterring potential challengers, setting them up as strong favorites for the 2026 general elections.
While Democrats are exploring options, including former Senator Sherrod Brown potentially eyeing a run in Ohio, the current landscape indicates a significant advantage for Husted and Moody, reflecting the enduring influence of presidential endorsements and strategic financial positioning in contemporary Republican politics.
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