Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted emerges as top candidate for Senate seat following JD Vance's resignation

Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted is the top candidate to replace JD Vance in the U.S. Senate. Vance must resign before being sworn in as Vice President on January 20, and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine will make the appointment. Husted's potential appointment comes as he has long aimed for the governor's office. However, some Republicans believe a Senate seat could be more appealing, especially if it avoids a contested primary. Other candidates had been considered, but DeWine views Husted as better suited for a challenging reelection campaign. The appointed senator will serve until 2026 and then face a special election to complete Vance's term.