Donald Trump selects Matt Gaetz, a polarizing MAGA supporter, as his choice for attorney general | US News
Donald Trump has selected the controversial Florida congressman Matt Gaetz to be his attorney general, despite recent scrutiny over sex trafficking allegations.
Democrats have criticized Gaetz as a “gonzo agent of chaos” and called his appointment a “red alert moment for our democracy”. Some Republican senators have also expressed concerns about his fitness for the role.
This decision comes as Mr. Trump gains control of the House of Representatives and continues to finalize his top team.
Mr. Gaetz, aged 42, was under investigation by the House of Representatives’ ethics committee for his alleged involvement in a sex trafficking scheme. However, following his resignation from Congress and appointment as attorney general, the investigation has been closed without any official findings being released.
Despite the controversy surrounding him – with Mr. Gaetz denying all allegations – he has consistently demonstrated his loyalty to the president-elect by supporting him during his legal proceedings and promoting conspiracy theories.
If appointed as head of the Department of Justice, the Florida politician will need Senate confirmation like other cabinet members, which could pose challenges given the controversies surrounding him.
The nomination is seen by some as a reward for his loyalty to Donald Trump. Pic: AP
Republican Reactions
Republican senator Lisa Murkowski expressed doubts about Gaetz’s nomination, stating it was not a serious choice for attorney general, while Senator Susan Collins was shocked by the pick and anticipated many questions about his suitability. Both senators have been known critics of Trump and will face scrutiny as their party regains control of the Senate next year.
Senator Kevin Cramer also raised concerns about Gaetz’s disruptive reputation and the serious allegations against him. Others like Senator John Cornyn and Senator Katie Britt remained noncommittal in their responses regarding Gaetz.
Mr Gaetz will need to be confirmed by a Senate vote. Pic: AP
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Senator Marco Rubio, who was nominated for secretary of state, defended Gaetz as a capable individual for the position. However, other Republican senators refrained from openly endorsing Gaetz’s nomination.
The nomination process for Gaetz will serve as a test for Republican senators to demonstrate if they prioritize conscience and conviction over political affiliations when making decisions.
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Democratic Reactions
Democratic lawmakers have not held back in their criticism of Gaetz’s nomination. Senator Chris Murphy called it a “red alert moment for our democracy,” while Representative Jim Himes described Gaetz as a disruptive agent contrary to the qualities needed for the role of attorney general.
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Senator Richard Blumenthal, a member of the Senate’s judiciary panel, viewed the nomination as a crucial test of Republican principles and their willingness to confront Trump. Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico expressed his disapproval more bluntly, criticizing the nomination in strong terms.
