JD Vance Resigns Senate Seat Ahead of Vice Presidential Inauguration

Vice President-elect JD Vance will resign from his Ohio Senate seat at midnight Thursday, January 9, 2025, ahead of his inauguration alongside President-elect Donald Trump. Vance, who was elected to the Senate in 2022, submitted his resignation letter to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, effective January 10, as he prepares to assume his new role as Vice President of the United States.

In his resignation letter, Vance expressed gratitude to the people of Ohio, stating, “It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the people of Ohio in the Senate over the past two years.” He also emphasized his commitment to supporting President-elect Trump’s agenda, saying, “The American people have granted President Trump an undeniable mandate to put America first, both at home and abroad. Over the next four years, I will do all that I can to help President Trump enact his agenda.”

Vance’s resignation triggers a process for Ohio Gov. DeWine to appoint a replacement to serve the remainder of Vance’s term until 2026. The appointee would then need to run in a special election to secure the seat for the final two years of the term. According to NBC News, Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted has emerged as a leading contender for the appointment. Husted, a seasoned politician with experience in the Ohio House of Representatives, Senate, and as Secretary of State, has not yet confirmed whether he would accept the position if offered.

Other potential candidates reportedly under consideration include Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Rep. Mike Carey, former Ohio Republican Party Chair Jane Timken, and attorney Mehek Cooke. DeWine’s decision could have significant implications for Ohio’s political landscape, particularly as the state prepares for the 2026 gubernatorial race, where DeWine is term-limited.

Vance, a former venture capitalist and author of “Hillbilly Elegy,” rose to prominence quickly after entering politics. He defeated former U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan in the 2022 Senate race and became a key figure in the Republican Party, ultimately being chosen as Trump’s running mate for the 2024 presidential election. Vance and Trump are set to be inaugurated on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.