Matt Gaetz is out of the operating to be the following Attorney General — however he stepped down from his position within the House of Representatives when Donald Trump nominated him to be his AG. Now that he’s not a part of Trump’s cupboard or the federal government anymore, can Gaetz return to Congress?
Below, we’re breaking down every little thing we all know to this point about Gaetz’s future in politics.
Why Did Matt Gaetz Withdraw as Attorney General?
In an announcement shared through X on November 21, 2024, Gaetz famous that he had “wonderful conferences” with members of the U.S. Senate, they usually had “considerate suggestions” for him.
“While the momentum was robust, it’s clear that my affirmation [to be AG] was unfairly turning into a distraction to the vital work of the Trump/Vance transition,” the previous Congressman wrote. “There is not any time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my title from consideration to function Attorney General.”
Gaetz added that he stays “totally dedicated to see that Donald J. Trump is essentially the most profitable president in historical past” and that he “will perpetually be honored that President Trump nominated [him] to guide the Department of Justice.”
I had wonderful conferences with Senators yesterday. I recognize their considerate suggestions – and the unbelievable assist of so many. While the momentum was robust, it’s clear that my affirmation was unfairly turning into a distraction to the vital work of the Trump/Vance…
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) November 21, 2024
The politician’s withdrawal from the AG consideration got here after his previous intercourse trafficking investigation resurfaced. Although he was by no means charged with a criminal offense, different accusations of sexual misconduct got here to gentle, together with a CNN report that claimed he had proven nude photos of girls to members within the House.
During a 2021 interview with Tucker Carlson, Gaetz vehemently denied the allegations that he had intercourse with a teen.
“I’ve not had a relationship with a 17-year-old. That is completely false,” he insisted. “The allegation is — I learn it within the New York Times — is that I’ve traveled with some 17-year-old in some relationship. That is fake, and information will bear that out to be false. Providing for flights and resort rooms for those who you’re courting who’re of authorized age isn’t a criminal offense.”
The Department of Justice concluded its investigation on Gaetz. However, the House Ethics Committee had reopened its probe. In November 2024, the committee agreed to conclude its probe and vote in December on whether or not or to not launch its findings.
Did Matt Gaetz Resign From Congress?
After Trump nominated him to be AG, Gaetz resigned from Congress in November 2024.
Can Gaetz Go Back to Congress Now?
According to Newsweek, it’s attainable that Gaetz can return to Congress. However, it wouldn’t be a simple path to return to the House of Representatives. If Marco Rubio formally turns into the brand new Secretary of State, there could be an open seat within the Senate for Gaetz to fill the seat. The outlet reported that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis might appoint Gaetz.
Currently, Gaetz is unemployed and never a member of the U.S. Congress.