President-elect Donald Trump shocked political circles with his nomination of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) as Attorney General on Wednesday, which drew mixed reactions from across the political spectrum. On CNN, Jake Tapper voiced his astonishment, saying, “I never contemplated using the words ‘US Attorney General Matt Gaetz’ together.”
Trump announced the nomination on Truth Social, calling Gaetz a “tenacious attorney” committed to addressing government corruption, reforming the Department of Justice, and strengthening border protections. Trump’s choice of Gaetz, a vocal Trump supporter and controversial figure in Congress, caused significant stir among Republicans, with some openly skeptical about Gaetz’s ability to secure Senate confirmation.
In a surprise move following the announcement, Gaetz, 42, resigned from Congress, ending a House Ethics Committee investigation into alleged misconduct and obstruction. Reports suggested the committee was preparing to release a critical report about Gaetz this week. However, with his resignation, the investigation is closed.
Gaetz’s nomination met immediate backlash, with some Republican legislators reportedly reacting with shock and even laughter at a Capitol Hill meeting. Moderate Republicans, including Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Lisa Murkowski, raised concerns about his fitness for the role, emphasizing the Senate’s duty to rigorously examine his qualifications. Nevertheless, Trump remains firm in his decision, stating that Gaetz will work to “restore faith and confidence in the Justice Department.”
If confirmed, Gaetz would replace Merrick Garland, whom Trump has repeatedly accused of partisan bias. This potential confirmation would mark a dramatic shift in DOJ leadership as Trump prepares to take office.
