UPDATE: Earlier today, Ashley Moody was officially sworn into the U.S. Senate alongside Florida Republican Sen. Rick Scott. Today, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has been appointed to fill the Senate seat vacated by Marco Rubio, who is set to become the next U.S. Secretary of State.
Mr. Moody is scheduled to take office on January 20th. As U.S. senator pro tempore, Moody will be required to run for election in 2026.
Overview of Moody’s legal and political career:
Ashley Moody made a name for herself as Florida’s prominent attorney general. Through frequent appearances on national cable TV shows such as Fox News, Moody became widely known for his commitment to law and order, consumer protection, and public safety.
Early life and education
Ashley Brooke Moody was born on March 28, 1975 in Plant City, Florida. Growing up in a family with a background in civil service, she developed an early interest in law. Moody attended the University of Florida and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He then earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida Levin School of Law and his Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law from Stetson University School of Law.
early legal career
Mr. Moody began his legal career as an attorney at Holland & Knight LLP, specializing in complex commercial litigation. She gained a reputation as a skilled litigator before transitioning into public service as a prosecutor.
She joined the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida and gained extensive experience in criminal law, with a focus on prosecuting drug trafficking and organized crime cases.
Career as a judicial officer
In 2006, at the age of 31, Moody was elected as a circuit court judge in Hillsborough County, making him the youngest judge in Florida. During her tenure, she handled cases in family law, civil disputes, and criminal justice. She was recognized for her fairness and attention to detail.
As a judge, Moody implemented programs aimed at improving court efficiency and advocated for reforms to better serve victims and their families.
Florida Attorney General
Moody resigned from the judiciary in 2017 to run for Florida attorney general. She won the Republican primary and then defeated Democratic candidate Sean Shaw in the general election to become president in January 2019.
As Attorney General, Moody’s priorities have been tackling human trafficking, the opioid crisis, and fraud prevention. Under her leadership, Florida has taken steps to combat human trafficking by partnering with law enforcement and community organizations to support victims.
Moody also tackled the opioid epidemic, securing settlements from pharmaceutical companies to fund prevention and treatment efforts. Her office has prioritized reducing organized retail crime, cybercrime, and elder exploitation.
One notable aspect of her tenure has been her involvement in multi-state litigation against federal policies related to immigration and vaccine mandates, specifically defending Floridians’ constitutional rights regarding the Second Amendment.
Community participation
Moody participates in various community initiatives and advocates for youth programs, mental health awareness, and veteran services. Her efforts reflect a commitment to improving the lives of Floridians beyond her legal responsibilities.
private life
Moody is married to law enforcement officer Justin Dularia, has two children, and has strong ties to the law enforcement community.
legacy and impact
Ashley Moody’s career has been marked by a focus on justice and public service. As Florida Attorney General, she worked on important issues affecting the state and earned the respect of her constituents and colleagues. During her tenure, AG contributed to the state’s legal and political landscape, emphasizing public safety, consumer protection, and the rule of law.
