President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday his intent to appoint Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz from Florida as the U.S. Attorney General. Following the announcement, House Speaker Mike Johnson disclosed that Gaetz had submitted his congressional resignation, which will become official upon its announcement on the House floor. Trump praised Gaetz, highlighting his commitment to reforming the Department of Justice. Gaetz expressed enthusiasm for the role in a post on X.
This nomination underscores Trump’s priority of loyalty for his administration, following his distancing from many former allies. If confirmed by the Senate, Gaetz would replace Attorney General Merrick Garland, who previously led a sex-trafficking investigation into Gaetz that concluded without charges. The House Ethics Committee has also been investigating Gaetz for potential sexual misconduct, but Johnson noted the committee would lose jurisdiction once Gaetz exits Congress. Earlier, Gaetz declared he would cease participating in their probe.
Trump’s choice surprised many Republican lawmakers. House Speaker Johnson said resignations weren’t expected following the appointments of GOP Reps. Elise Stefanik and Mike Waltz to Trump’s administration. Sen. Susan Collins expressed shock at Gaetz’s nomination, noting the importance of the Senate’s role in confirming such appointments. When questioned about Gaetz’s suitability for the position, Rep. Mike Simpson responded with disbelief.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/13/trump-taps-rep-matt-gaetz-as-attorney-general.html
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