Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted has recently been identified as a top candidate to fill the Senate seat soon to be vacated by Vice President-elect JD Vance. According to three knowledgeable Republicans, Husted is a frontrunner in the selection process.
Who will appoint the replacement?
Gov. Mike DeWine will be responsible for appointing a replacement once Vance steps down from his Senate position. This transition must occur before Vance and President-elect Donald Trump assume their new roles on January 20th.
Will Husted accept the appointment?
While it remains uncertain whether Husted will accept the appointment, there is speculation among GOP insiders that the position is his for the taking if he desires it. The appointment would last until a special election in 2026, which will determine who will serve the remaining two years of Vance's term.