**WASHINGTON** — Matt Gaetz, the choice for attorney general put forth by President-elect Donald Trump, is taking steps to defend his contested nomination. On Wednesday, he engaged in private discussions with Republican senators who have raised concerns regarding allegations of sexual misconduct against him. While Gaetz sought to address these issues, members of the House Ethics Committee were reportedly gathering to review the findings of an extensive investigation into Gaetz’s conduct.
Some Republican senators have expressed discontent regarding the push against Gaetz, describing it as a “lynch mob” targeting him due to his political views. “I refuse to legitimize a process designed to vilify a man simply because some disagree with his politics,” stated Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina as he exited the confidential meeting. He argued that Gaetz should have the opportunity to present his case for being appointed as attorney general, emphasizing the importance of a fair process rather than an unjust trial by public opinion.
Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, who supports Gaetz’s nomination, urged caution among those with reservations. “If you have concerns, that’s fine. But don’t rush to judgment. Let him testify first,” he remarked. As the private meeting unfolded in the secluded Strom Thurmond Room, Hawley noted that Gaetz appeared to be in good spirits despite the ongoing controversies surrounding him.
This meeting marks Gaetz’s effort to gather the essential support in the Senate needed for his confirmation as attorney general, as he continues to deny the various allegations. His agenda involves significant reforms aimed at eliminating individuals from the Department of Justice whom Trump believes have misused their positions against him and his supporters.
Vice President-elect JD Vance facilitated the session, primarily focusing on strategy. During this time, Gaetz outlined the necessity for a Senate hearing to articulate his vision for the Justice Department, in line with Trump’s directives. Earlier this week, Gaetz met with members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, who showed enthusiasm for his proposed comprehensive changes, which have generated concern within the DOJ.
Nonetheless, Gaetz faces pressure as the House Ethics Committee prepares to unveil a report detailing accusations against him. Legal representatives linked to a civil case involving Gaetz were alerted that someone had unlawfully accessed confidential files containing unredacted testimonies from individuals alleging inappropriate encounters with him, including a woman claiming that their liaison occurred when she was 17.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has argued against releasing the report due to Gaetz’s prompt resignation from his congressional position. However, several GOP senators have voiced their desire to see all pertinent information before making their voting decisions. Senator Mike Lee from Utah, who also held discussions with Gaetz, mentioned that while they didn’t delve deeply into the specifics of the upcoming report, Gaetz expressed confidence that it would consist mainly of unfounded allegations.
As the new Congress is set to commence on January 3, when Republicans take control, senators are anticipated to start hearings on Trump’s nominees, with voting potentially occurring on Inauguration Day, January 20.
Gaetz has been a steadfast ally of Trump, gaining attention during congressional hearings where he criticized alleged favoritism within the Justice Department, particularly in light of the indictments against Trump concerning classified documents and efforts to contest the 2020 election in the wake of the January 6 Capitol incident.
Although Gaetz’s nomination has raised eyebrows, reflecting a societal shift in attitudes toward allegations of sexual misconduct since the “Me Too” movement, the Senate possesses a historical precedence of confirming nominees despite questions regarding their sexual behavior. Hawley remarked that he finds the allegations targeting Gaetz to be unconvincing.