Matt Gaetz, a prominent Republican congressman and staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, has decided to withdraw from consideration for the position of U.S. Attorney General.
This decision came after fresh reports surfaced about his alleged sexual misconduct with a 17-year-old girl.
In a statement posted on social media on November 21, just a week after Trump named him for the role, Gaetz explained that he no longer wanted to be a distraction.
“There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle,” he wrote. “Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”
Gaetz reiterated his commitment to supporting Trump and ensuring his success as president.
Despite being a loyal Trump supporter, Gaetz has faced significant controversy over the years, which made his nomination a tough sell.
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His battles with fellow Republicans and previous allegations of sexual misconduct have cast doubt on his ability to lead the Justice Department.
Although the former congressman denied the allegations, they had already caused a stir, particularly a claim that he had sexual relations with a 17-year-old, which is illegal under U.S. law.
Trump expressed gratitude for Gaetz’s efforts but acknowledged the political challenges he faced.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!”
Gaetz had previously been under investigation for his involvement in a sex trafficking probe by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Although no charges were filed, he was also scrutinized by the House Ethics Committee for allegations of sexual misconduct, with some women claiming Gaetz paid them for sex.
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One of them testified to seeing Gaetz with a 17-year-old girl at a party in 2017, though Gaetz denied knowing her age at the time.
After Trump’s announcement, Gaetz resigned from his position in the U.S. House of Representatives. It remains unclear if he will seek to return to Congress after being re-elected for another two-year term just weeks ago.