In a significant setback for President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team, Matt Gaetz has withdrawn his nomination for U.S. Attorney General, citing concerns that controversy surrounding his candidacy was becoming a distraction to the incoming administration’s efforts.
The former Florida congressman’s withdrawal comes amid renewed scrutiny of sexual misconduct allegations, including claims investigated by the House Ethics Committee. His departure from consideration reopens the search for the nation’s top law enforcement position, a critical role in the incoming administration.
“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 stated on social media platform X. Trump responded supportively, noting, “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do.”
The withdrawal occurred as new details emerged about the ethics investigation, including testimony from witnesses and financial records that had been obtained by multiple news organizations. Gaetz has consistently denied all allegations against him, and a previous Justice Department investigation concluded without charges.
Several potential candidates have emerged as possible replacements, including:
- Todd Blanche, Trump’s personal lawyer and current deputy attorney general nominee
- Mark Paoletta, former legal counsel to Mike Pence
- Robert Giuffra, co-chair of Sullivan and Cromwell
- Judge Aileen Cannon
- Kash Patel, former Defense Department chief of staff
The attorney general position is considered particularly significant in Trump’s cabinet, as the role would oversee the Department of Justice. Several qualified candidates, including Senators Mike Lee and Eric Schmitt, have already indicated they are not interested in the position.
The development represents an early challenge for Trump’s transition team, which has made other notable nominations, including Fox News host Pete Hegseth for defense secretary, vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for health secretary, and Elon Musk to lead a government cost-cutting initiative.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) commended Gaetz’s decision to withdraw, stating, “He clearly put the country’s interests first. And I’m pleased that he did so.” The search for a new nominee is expected to begin immediately.
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