The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) announced its endorsement of Sen. Ashley Moody for a full term in the U.S. Senate this week. Moody, who was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the post in January 2025, is the only major Republican currently in the race.
Sen. Moody is looking to fill the final two years of Marco Rubio's term, who left to become Secretary of State under the second Trump administration. Moody was Florida's Attorney General from 2019 to 2025 before her appointment to the Senate.
Known as "The Voice of Florida Business," the AIF has represented the principles of prosperity and free enterprise before the three branches of state government since 1920. It was also founded to promote an economic environment in Florida "conducive to the growth, development, and welfare of industry and business and the people of the state."
The AIF's endorsement of Moody follows its support of Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier earlier this month.
Moody's support includes President Donald Trump, who endorsed her in a Truth Social post last year.
"Ashley is working tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Champion American Energy DOMINANCE, Help Secure our already Secure Southern Border, Stop Migrant Crime, Murders, and other Criminals from illegally entering our Country, Strengthen our Great Military/Veterans, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment," Trump shared. "Ashley has my Complete and Total Endorsement - SHE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!"
Trump won Florida by 13 points over Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, giving Moody a likely advantage over her competition.
Moody also has the support of the Republican Party of Florida. In addition, U.S. Sens. Rick Scott (R-FL) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) are backing her bid.
Former National Security Council aide Alexander Vindman, who played a central role in Trump's first impeachment, and Rep. Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) are challenging Moody on the Democratic ticket.
The U.S. Senate special election is set for Nov. 3, 2026.
