AG-elect Matt Gaetz has formally made the decision to withdraw his name from consideration for Attorney General in the upcoming Donald Trump administration. This move, Gaetz explained, is to prevent becoming a “distraction” as President-elect Trump gears up to assume office in January.
Gaetz, a dedicated supporter of the former president and a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, shared this announcement on social media. He mentioned having “excellent meetings” with senators but recognized that his confirmation process was beginning to overshadow the priorities of the transition team.
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
“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. “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.”
This decision comes shortly after Gaetz, who recently secured reelection to Congress, resigned from the 118th Congress to focus on his potential appointment to lead the Department of Justice.
BREAKING: Matt Gaetz withdraws himself from being Trump's Attorney General pick, says his confirmation was becoming a "distraction to the critical work" of the Trump transition. pic.twitter.com/9Sq54lOBv1
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 21, 2024
Gaetz’s announcement subtly pointed to political tensions, yet he presented his decision as aligned with advancing Trump’s broader agenda. “Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1,” he asserted. “I remain fully committed to seeing that Donald J. Trump is the most successful President in history.”
As the Trump/Vance team continues efforts to fill key cabinet positions, speculation is rampant regarding who might step in as the new nominee for Attorney General.
It’s also an eyebrow raiser as to what is next for Gaetz, considering he already turned in his resignation to Congress.