WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — Former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz announced Thursday he is withdrawing as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, citing the “distraction” caused by allegations involving payments to underage women.
“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 said in a statement. “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. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”
The decision comes amid a federal investigation in the United States that has reportedly linked Gaetz to a network of payments involving associates. According to investigators, the probe has revealed alleged connections to drug-fueled parties and payments to women, including one who was a minor at the time.
Gaetz’s withdrawal adds another layer of complexity to Trump’s incoming administration, as the President-elect now faces the challenge of selecting a new nominee to head the Department of Justice before his inauguration.
The allegations against Gaetz have sparked a wave of criticism and speculation over his potential role in Trump’s administration, leading to intense scrutiny from both parties. So far, Gaetz has denied all accusations and has not been charged with any crimes, but his decision to step aside appears to acknowledge the toll the investigation could take on Trump’s early presidency.
As of the time of filing in this report, representatives from the Trump transition team have yet to comment on the search for a new Attorney General nominee.
