J.D. Vance has been replaced. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has officially appointed Lt. Gov. Jon Husted to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the vice president-elect. The decision, revealed during a Friday news conference, ends weeks of speculation surrounding the high-profile vacancy.
DeWine praised Husted as the ideal choice to represent Ohio in Washington, emphasizing his deep understanding of state and federal governance, according to multiple reports. Describing him as a “workhorse,” DeWine expressed confidence in Husted’s ability to navigate Senate responsibilities effectively and prepare for a reelection campaign. The governor highlighted the urgency of appointing a capable leader to address the pressing global challenges facing the nation.
This decision follows the rapid ascent of JD Vance, who served in the Senate for only two years before becoming vice president. DeWine, a former U.S. senator himself, kept his decision tightly guarded until the formal announcement, fueling considerable speculation and debate within Ohio’s Republican Party.
As lieutenant governor since 2019 and a former Ohio secretary of state, Husted has built a reputation as a dedicated public servant. His personal story of being adopted from foster care and his achievements as a student-athlete at the University of Dayton underscore his resilience and commitment. Husted was also seen as a potential contender for Ohio’s governorship in 2026, a race that will likely be reshaped by this appointment. He is slated to serve until a special election in November 2026, when voters will decide who completes the remainder of Vance’s term, set to expire in 2028.
The selection process garnered national attention, with several prominent figures rumored to be under consideration. Among them was businessman and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, a close ally of former President Donald Trump. Ramaswamy’s controversial comments on social media, coupled with his role in Trump’s newly formed “Department of Government Efficiency,” added intrigue to the race. Ultimately, DeWine opted for Husted, favoring experience and proven leadership over the outsider approach.
With this appointment, Husted joins Sen. Bernie Moreno, who took office earlier this month. A special election will be set soon to determine who fills out the rest of the term.
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