Ohio Governor Mike DeWine faces the task of appointing a replacement for Senator JD Vance, who has been selected by former President Donald Trump as his running mate. DeWine, a Republican, has had public disagreements with Trump in the past.
DeWine has not explicitly endorsed Trump's third White House bid and recently supported state Sen. Matt Dolan in a key Republican Senate primary, where Trump backed businessman Bernie Moreno. Despite being a former US senator himself, DeWine's allies believe it is unlikely he would appoint himself if Vance is chosen.
Choosing Vance's successor is seen as a decision that could define DeWine's legacy. It is crucial for him to find a candidate who can unite different factions within the party, from the establishment to the MAGA wing, and withstand a primary challenge in 2026.
Potential candidates for the appointment include Dolan, former Ohio Republican Party chair Jane Timken, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, and Attorney General Dave Yost. DeWine, known for promoting women to key positions, may also consider appointing Ohio's first female senator.
