Val Demings says she’s open to running for governor or Senate

U.S. Rep. Val Demings of Orlando says she is “keeping the door open” for a potential run for governor or U.S. senator next year.

“I certainly would not talk about any private conversations that I’m having,” Demings, D-Orlando, said in an interview with the Washington Post on Tuesday. “But as I said, there’s plenty of work to do in the House right now. If that would take me to another campaign, then I’m keeping that door open.”

Demings, in her third term representing District 10 in western Orange County, gained national attention last year for her role as a House impeachment manager during former President Trump’s first trial in the Senate. The former Orlando Police chief was also on President Biden’s shortlist for a running mate last summer before he chose Kamala Harris.

‘When you’re looking at statewide candidates, whether it’s for governor or senator, then, of course, every state wants the most qualified, the most experienced person who brings unique perspectives, unique backgrounds to the table,” Demings said. “I just want states to start realizing that many times, the most experienced person in the room just happens to be a woman. And guess what, [she] just might be a woman of color.”

Demings’ spokesman said Wednesday she had no further comment on her future plans.

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis is up for a second term in 2022, while U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Miami, would be up for his third term.

DeSantis saw his poll numbers drop over the course of 2020 amid a coronavirus pandemic response that was much less strict than in other states and controversy over a beleaguered unemployment system.

Names mentioned as potential Democratic candidates for governor include agriculture commissioner Nikki Fried, former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, state Sen. Lauren Book, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, U.S. Rep. (and former GOP governor) Charlie Crist and state Rep. Anna Eskamani. Former GOP Rep. David Jolly has also said he’s considering an independent run.