Former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz announced Thursday that he is withdrawing from consideration to serve as Attorney General under President-elect Donald Trump. The decision follows intense scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation, which has raised doubts about his ability to secure Senate confirmation.
Gaetz’s withdrawal comes just a week after his nomination, which had sparked significant debate due to his controversial legal history and limited experience in the justice system. “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction,” Gaetz said in a statement. He emphasized the need for Trump’s Justice Department to be operational without delay.
Trump Responds to Gaetz’s Decision
Trump expressed gratitude for Gaetz’s efforts, stating, “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!” Trump has yet to name a replacement for the position, but other prominent figures, including former acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker, have been considered for key administration roles.
Controversy Surrounding Gaetz
Gaetz, a staunch ally of Trump, faced ongoing challenges tied to allegations of sex trafficking involving underage girls. While Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing, recent testimonies and investigations have fueled opposition to his nomination. The Department of Justice concluded its investigation last year without filing charges, but the allegations continue to overshadow his political career.
An attorney representing two women recently revealed that his clients testified about Gaetz’s alleged involvement in transactions for sexual services, including a 2017 incident involving a 17-year-old girl. Gaetz has maintained that he ceased contact when he became aware of the girl’s age and resumed the relationship after she turned 18.
Implications for Trump’s Cabinet
Gaetz’s nomination highlighted Trump’s preference for loyal allies in key roles, even amid controversy. However, the backlash against Gaetz’s selection may complicate the approval process for other nominees with contentious pasts, such as Pete Hegseth, Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense, who also faces allegations of misconduct.
Gaetz’s Political Future
Having resigned from his congressional seat upon his nomination, Gaetz’s withdrawal leaves his political future uncertain. He had won reelection in November but stated in his resignation letter that he would not assume office in January. A special election is planned to fill his seat in Florida.
While some Republican senators praised Gaetz’s decision to step aside, others expressed disappointment. Florida Senator Rick Scott, a Trump ally, noted, “I like Matt and I think he would have changed the way DOJ is run.” Meanwhile, Senator Susan Collins commended Gaetz for prioritizing the country’s interests by withdrawing.
Gaetz’s decision marks a significant moment in Trump’s transition efforts, signaling the challenges of balancing loyalty with the necessity of securing Senate approval for Cabinet appointees.
