WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump has selected Rep. Matt Gaetz from Florida as his nominee for attorney general, a position that comes with significant scrutiny given Gaetz’s controversial background. He has previously been under investigation by the Justice Department regarding sex trafficking allegations and is currently facing inquiries from the House Ethics Committee related to claims of sexual misconduct.
A strong ally of Trump, Gaetz has been engulfed in scandals that may hinder his confirmation as the chief federal law enforcement officer by the Senate, which is currently run by Republicans. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing and stated that the Justice Department’s sex trafficking investigation into him, which involved allegations about underage girls, concluded without any federal charges against him.
As the incoming attorney general, Gaetz would be expected to initiate significant reform at the Justice Department, which has been a principal target of Trump’s criticism, especially concerning two criminal cases accusing him of conspiring to undermine the 2020 election results and unlawfully retaining classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Trump has also portrayed himself as a victim of politically motivated investigations and has expressed intentions for retribution against perceived adversaries if he returns to office.
It is improbable that Gaetz will be in place to oversee special counsel Jack Smith, who has brought federal charges against Trump—both cases are anticipated to conclude prior to the new administration’s start. Smith may leave his position shortly before Trump’s inauguration; however, special counsels typically compile reports on their investigations, and the timeline for public disclosure of such documents remains uncertain.
In his announcement, Trump expressed confidence in Gaetz, stating that he would address “systemic corruption” within the Justice Department and aim to realign the agency with its fundamental objective of combating crime and preserving democratic ideals. Gaetz took to social media to declare his enthusiasm for serving as Trump’s attorney general.
Prior to this announcement, Gaetz emphasized the need for a vigorous opposition to what he termed a “WEAPONIZED government,” even suggesting the complete abolition of multiple federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, should he be confirmed.
The selection of Gaetz has raised eyebrows among House Republicans, with some expressing doubt about his ability to secure Senate confirmation. Republican Rep. Mike Simpson of Idaho voiced skepticism about Gaetz’s chances, while Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska remarked that she did not see Gaetz as a valid candidate. Nevertheless, some of Gaetz’s supporters highlighted his experience on the House Judiciary Committee as a point in his favor.
The sex trafficking investigation, initially commenced under Attorney General Bill Barr during Trump’s first term, delved into allegations that Gaetz and former political partner Joel Greenberg compensated underage girls and escorts for sex. Greenberg, the former tax collector in Florida, admitted in a plea agreement in 2021 to paying women, including a minor, for sexual encounters. In late 2022, he was sentenced to 11 years in prison.
Federal investigators looked into a trip Gaetz took to the Bahamas, involving women and a doctor who contributed to his campaign. They questioned whether the women were compensated or given gifts for sexual interactions with Gaetz and others. Additionally, there were inquiries regarding whether Gaetz attempted to secure government positions for some of the women involved and examined his connections to the medical marijuana industry.
Separately, the House Ethics Committee continues to investigate Gaetz for claims related to the trafficking of a 17-year-old girl. The committee began its inquiry in April 2021, paused it upon a request from the Justice Department, and resumed shortly after the conclusion of the DOJ investigation. Recently, the committee indicated that its review may encompass allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, acceptance of improper gifts, and attempts to obstruct investigations into his alleged actions. Gaetz has strongly rejected all accusations presented before the committee.
Rep. Michael Guest, the Republican chair of the House Ethics Committee, stated that Gaetz’s nomination would not alter the ongoing investigations. However, if Gaetz assumes the cabinet position, the committee would lose jurisdiction to continue its probe or disclose any findings. “We’re not going to rush this investigation because of the appointment,” Guest asserted, emphasizing a commitment to adhere to established rules and procedures.