Gov. Rick Scott Going to Washington?

TALLAHASSEE, FL — When Gov. Rick Scott made a passionate plea for Republicans to get behind Donald Trump following his win in the Florida Presidential Preference Primary back in March, the rumor mill began to churn overtime.

Was Scott looking to become Trump’s running mate? After all, the two have a lot in common. Both have business backgrounds and are largely considered political outsiders.

The running mate question was answered most assuredly when Trump announced Indiana Gov. Mike Pence as his vice-presidential pick. That appointment gave rise to more speculation. Perhaps Scott had his eye on a cabinet level post instead?

Scott addressed that question directly following Trump’s Tuesday victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton.

When asked by media if he’d accept a post as Secretary of Health and Human Services if it was offered, he replied with a quick and simple “no.”

Scott elaborated on the decision further Wednesday afternoon.

“I want to do everything I can to help him, but I love my job here,” the Tampa Bay Times quoted him as saying.

To be sure, Scott didn’t sit on the sidelines during Trump’s race to the White House. In addition to imploring Republicans to end the “Stop Trump” movement, he also was named the national chair for Rebuilding America Now back in July. The super PAC was one of several that supported Trump’s campaign.

“It’s time for us to fire the politicians,” Scott said in a July statement announcing the appointment. “That’s what this election is all about, and that’s why I am excited to chair the Rebuilding America Now Super PAC to help Donald Trump.”

Following the announcement of Trump’s presidential win, Scott took to Twitter to offer his support for the new administration.

“Congrats to my friend @realDonaldTrump, our next president,” he wrote. “Had a smooth election in FL. Look forward to having a partner in the White House.”

Scott won his second term as Florida’s governor in 2014, narrowly defeating former Gov. Charlie Crist.

Photo courtesy of Gov. Rick Scott’s Facebook page