Withdrawal of Matt Gaetz’s Attorney-General Nomination
WASHINGTON: Hardline Republican Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration as President-elect Donald Trump’s attorney-general after facing opposition from Senate Republicans over his past conduct.
Gaetz, who resigned from the US House of Representatives last week, was the subject of an ethics committee probe into allegations of having sex with a 17-year-old girl. He has denied wrongdoing.
Background
Gaetz, a firebrand and loyal Trump ally, was disliked by many fellow Republicans for orchestrating the ouster of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year, throwing the House into chaos for weeks. His nomination was an early test of Trump’s power over Congress, where the Republican Party will hold majorities in both chambers next year.
Withdrawal
Gaetz, in a post on X, said he wanted to avoid becoming a distraction to the incoming Trump administration. "There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as attorney-general," Gaetz wrote. "Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1," he said, in reference to the US Department of Justice.
Reaction
Gaetz’s withdrawal was met with disappointment from some Republicans, while others expressed relief. "He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the administration, for which he has much respect," Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Next Steps Unclear
It is unclear who Trump might consider as an alternative candidate. Trump has already tapped Todd Blanche, a former federal prosecutor, to serve as the No. 2 justice department official, and former Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Jay Clayton to lead the high-profile US Attorney’s office in Manhattan.
Additional Nominees
Gaetz is the first Cabinet-level nominee tapped to serve in Trump’s upcoming administration to withdraw, though several have faced scrutiny over past behavior. Another Trump nominee, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, who was tapped as defense secretary, has also been engulfed in controversy for alleged sexual misconduct.
Conclusion
Gaetz’s withdrawal marks a significant development in the Trump administration’s efforts to shape the Department of Justice. The withdrawal raises questions about the vetting process for high-level appointees and the potential for future nominations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Matt Gaetz withdraw his name from consideration for attorney-general?
A: Gaetz withdrew his name due to opposition from Senate Republicans over his past conduct, including allegations of sexual misconduct.
Q: What is the current status of the Department of Justice under the Trump administration?
A: The Department of Justice is still in the process of being staffed and organized under the Trump administration.
Q: Who might Trump consider as an alternative candidate for attorney-general?
A: Trump has not specified a specific candidate, but has considered several individuals, including Republican senator Mike Lee, Mark Paoletta, and Chris Landau.
Q: What is the significance of Gaetz’s withdrawal?
A: Gaetz’s withdrawal marks a significant development in the Trump administration’s efforts to shape the Department of Justice, and raises questions about the vetting process for high-level appointees.