(LibertySociety.com) – Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) announced Thursday that he is withdrawing his name from consideration to serve as Attorney General in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. The decision comes amid mounting controversy surrounding his potential confirmation and an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct.
Gaetz cited his withdrawal as a way to avoid unnecessary distractions during the Trump-Vance transition. “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz wrote in a statement. “There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my name.”
The Florida congressman expressed his gratitude for the nomination, adding, “I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice, and I’m certain he will Save America.”
Trump, in turn, praised Gaetz for his efforts, stating, “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!” The President-elect acknowledged Gaetz’s decision, noting that it reflected his respect for the administration’s need to focus on preparing for Day One.
Gaetz’s withdrawal follows his resignation from Congress earlier this month after being nominated for the AG role. Despite initial support from some Republican senators, concerns about his confirmation emerged, particularly as the House Ethics Committee weighed releasing findings from an investigation into alleged misconduct. On Wednesday, the committee reportedly discussed allegations involving Gaetz, including a claim of a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old in 2017. CNN reported that Gaetz announced his withdrawal less than an hour after reporters questioned him about a second alleged incident.
The Justice Department previously investigated Gaetz for alleged sex trafficking but declined to bring charges. Nonetheless, the allegations and Ethics Committee inquiry have cast a shadow over his political career.
Vice President-elect JD Vance accompanied Gaetz during meetings with senators earlier this week, and some Republicans urged their colleagues to reserve judgment until a formal confirmation hearing. Still, the controversy appeared too significant to overcome.
While Gaetz’s potential role in the Trump administration is now off the table, his decision signals his commitment to minimizing distractions during the transition. For now, the focus shifts back to Trump’s team as they prepare to fill the critical role of Attorney General.
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