Gaetz prioritizes DOJ reform over Ethics Report scrutiny
Attorney general nominee dismisses inquiries about Ethics Committee report, emphasizing focus on Justice Department reform.
Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), selected by President-elect Donald Trump for attorney general, stated on Wednesday that his main objective is to revamp the Department of Justice (DOJ) and avoided addressing the House Ethics Committee’s decision not to publish a report on its investigation into allegations against him.
During a brief encounter with journalists on Capitol Hill, Gaetz disclosed that he engaged in a series of fruitful meetings with U.S. senators.
When questioned about the Ethics Committee’s actions on Wednesday, Gaetz redirected, indicating that his primary concern is “on what we gotta do to reform the Department of Justice.”
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“I’ve been meeting with senators,” he remarked. “I haven’t been paying much attention to that.”
The investigation involves allegations of sexual misconduct, drug usage, and campaign funds misuse, among other accusations. Gaetz has consistently refuted these claims, highlighting that a related DOJ probe into human trafficking concluded last year without any charges.
“The Department of Justice has assured Congressman Gaetz’s attorneys that their inquiry is finalized and that no criminal charges will be filed,” a statement from his office indicated last year.
Gaetz, a firm supporter of Trump, revealed on Wednesday that he discussed his priorities with Vice President-elect JD Vance that day.
When queried about direct contact with Trump, Gaetz specified that he had not spoken with him on Wednesday but remained dedicated to realizing the president-elect’s commitments.
“I haven’t conversed with [Trump], but I had a constructive discussion with the vice president-elect, outlining our agenda to combat misconduct at the Department of Justice, address fentanyl issues, eliminate DOJ censorship, and ensure alignment with President Trump’s goals on immigration,” Gaetz shared.
Having relinquished his House position after Trump nominated him, Senate confirmation is essential. While Trump’s team dismissed the allegations as groundless, Senate Republicans reportedly have conflicting views on accessing the Ethics Committee report before making a decision on Gaetz’s confirmation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) opposed the publication of the report, citing concerns about setting a negative precedent.
The Ethics Committee has not disclosed if or when the report will be finalized and shared with the Senate Judiciary Committee.
