Jacob Ogles
U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee served on the bench with U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody when both were Judges in Hillsborough County. Now, the Congresswoman wants to continue serving with her in Congress.
Lee is endorsing Moody’s candidacy to remain in the Senate. Lee wrote about her support in an extended social media post.
“As someone who has proudly known Ashley Moody for many years, I am thrilled to endorse her to continue to serve as Florida’s U.S. Senator,” Lee said. “Ashley is not only an exceptional leader; she is a steadfast champion of conservative values, with unwavering integrity and dedication.”
The history runs deep between Lee, a Thonotosassa Republican, and Moody, a Plant City Republican. Both first held office in the 13th Judicial Circuit as Judges at a young age. Later, Moody won election as Florida Attorney General in 2018. Within months, Gov. Ron DeSantis, who won election the same year, named Lee as his Secretary of State.
Lee discussed seeing Moody in action in both those jobs.
“Her experience as a judge and Attorney General of Florida has equipped her with a profound commitment to justice and the rule of law,” Lee wrote. “Together, we have spearheaded critical legislation that bolsters public safety, enhances voter security, and supports law enforcement — key components of President (Donald) Trump’s agenda.”
Lee was elected to Congress in 2022 and secured another term in 2024. Meanwhile, DeSantis in January appointed Moody to fill an open Senate seat vacated by now-Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
At one point, there was speculation Lee might be appointed to the seat. DeSantis said he considered multiple sitting members of Congress, but ultimately could not go that way largely because Republicans hold such a small majority in the U.S. House.
Moody will stand for election in 2026, and Lee said she wants the incumbent to remain in that seat.
“Floridians will continue to benefit from her principled leadership and vision,” Lee posted. “I wholeheartedly support Ashley, and I encourage you to join me in backing a remarkable leader and dear friend. Together, we can ensure Florida’s future is strong and in experienced hands.”
