Day after the US House Ethics Committee deadlocked on releasing a report into allegations of sexual misconduct and illegal drug use by President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general Matt Gaetz, the latter on Thursday (November 21) announced his decision to withdraw from the post.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gaetz elaborated on the reason behind his decision, which he took in the face of opposition from the Senate Republicans, whose support he would have needed to win the job.
He said, “I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback and the incredible support of so many. While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition. There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle; thus, I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.”
“I remain fully committed to seeing that Donald J. Trump is the most successful president in history. I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice, and I’m certain he will save America,” he added.