Matt Gaetz Withdraws from Consideration as Trump’s Attorney General Amid Controversy

Matt Gaetz, the former U.S. Congressman nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of Attorney General, has withdrawn from consideration following allegations of his involvement in sex trafficking and engaging in sexual activities with a minor.

In a post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Gaetz announced his decision, expressing gratitude for the support he had received but acknowledging that the confirmation process had become a distraction.

I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback – and the incredible support of so many. While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance…

— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) November 21, 2024

“I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday and appreciated their thoughtful feedback, as well as the support from so many. However, it has become clear that my confirmation was increasingly becoming a distraction to the crucial work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz stated. “Given that, I have decided to withdraw my name from consideration for Attorney General. There is no time to waste on a protracted Washington battle, and we must ensure that Trump’s Department of Justice is ready from Day 1.”

Gaetz reiterated his commitment to supporting Trump’s presidency, stating, “I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice, and I am confident that he will Save America.”

Gaetz had been nominated by Trump for the Attorney General role just a week earlier.