FLORIDA, USA — As President-elect Donald Trump continues to make selections in filling his cabinet before taking over the White House in January, one he could soon make could have major impacts in Florida.
According to a report from NBC News, Gov. Ron DeSantis is reportedly on Trump's shortlist to replace his pick for defense secretary, which is the top post in the Pentagon.
DeSantis, 46, would potentially replace Pete Hegseth. Hegseth's nomination has been met with intense scrutiny, as a sexual assault allegation against him has surfaced, as well as questions about his qualifications.
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Hegseth, 44, has denied any wrongdoing and said what happened in the 2017 sexual encounter was consensual. He was never arrested or charged, but did pay his accuser an undisclosed sum as part of a settlement agreement.
According to ABC News, DeSantis is one of at least four people being considered to replace Hegseth. Sources close to DeSantis say he has expressed interest in becoming the nation's next secretary of defense. A spokesperson from Trump's transition committee has declined to say whether DeSantis is under consideration for the post.
What impact would DeSantis' appointment into Trump's cabinet have on Florida?
If DeSantis is appointed into Trump's cabinet for the 45th president's second administration, Florida Lieutenant Gov. Jeanette Nuñez would assume the role of governor and would finish out the rest of DeSantis' term, which ends in January 2027. Furthermore, Nuñez would become the Sunshine State's first female governor, as well as its first Cuban-American governor.
Florida's next gubernatorial election will be in November 2026.