November 21: Former Representative Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) announced on Thursday that he was withdrawing from consideration for the position of Attorney General in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Gaetz shared the news on social media, explaining that despite having productive meetings with senators the day before, it became clear that his confirmation was becoming a distraction from the important work of the Trump/Vance Transition team.
In his message, Gaetz stated, “There is no time to waste on unnecessary political battles, so I am stepping back from this nomination.” He emphasized the need for Trump’s Department of Justice to be ready on Day 1 and reiterated his commitment to ensuring Trump’s success. Gaetz expressed his gratitude for the nomination, saying it was an honor to be considered for such a significant role.
Gaetz’s decision to withdraw followed mounting concerns among GOP senators, some of whom had voiced reservations about his nomination. The former congressman would have needed broad Republican support to secure confirmation, as any Democratic opposition would have likely blocked him from taking the position.
Trump, in a statement on social media, praised Gaetz for his decision, stating, “Matt has a bright future ahead, and I look forward to all the great things he will do.” Gaetz’s withdrawal came just a day after the House Ethics Committee chose not to release findings from an ongoing ethics investigation into him, though it did not rule out the possibility of releasing the report in the future.
