Vice President-Elect JD Vance Resigns from Senate as Ohio Awaits Successor

Vice President-elect JD Vance has officially announced his resignation from the U.S. Senate, effective this Friday, as he prepares to assume his new role.

Vance shared the news in a letter addressed to Ohio Republican Governor Mike DeWine, who will now be tasked with appointing a successor.

“As I prepare to assume my duties as Vice President of the United States, I would like to express that it has been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the people of Ohio in the Senate over the past two years,” Vance wrote.

Reflecting on his upbringing in Appalachia, Vance emphasized his commitment to the values he brought to office.

“When I was elected to this office, I promised to never forget where I came from, and I’ve made sure to live by that promise every single day,” he said in a separate statement.

DeWine, speaking through a spokesperson, confirmed he would announce the appointment soon after Vance’s seat is vacated. Although speculation about potential replacements has been intense, the governor remained tight-lipped.

He was reportedly attending a governors’ event with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday evening.

Among the potential candidates for Vance’s replacement are prominent Ohio Republicans, including Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Treasurer Robert Sprague, U.S. Representative Mike Carey, State Senator Matt Dolan, former Republican state chair Jane Timken, and attorney Mehek Cooke.

However, Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted has recently emerged as a leading contender.

Husted accompanied DeWine on the recent Mar-a-Lago trip, further fueling speculation about his potential appointment.

When asked about the matter at a Wednesday bill-signing event, DeWine declined to provide specifics. “I’m not ready to make an announcement yet, but the announcement will be coming soon,” he said.

Husted, who has long been considered a front-runner for Ohio’s 2026 gubernatorial race, also remained cautious in his comments.

“We’re considering all the options, and just, that’s really all I have to say,” he remarked. Husted’s extensive political career includes roles as Ohio House Speaker, State Senator, and two-term Secretary of State.

The individual selected to replace Vance will serve in the Senate until December 2026 and must run in November 2026 for the remainder of the term.

As the political landscape in Ohio shifts, DeWine’s decision is expected to significantly shape the state’s Republican leadership in the coming years.