Former Rep. Matt Gaetz has confirmed that he will not be returning to Congress after withdrawing his name from consideration for the position of attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump. Gaetz cited personal reasons for his decision, stating that he has other goals in life that he wishes to pursue with his family.
The announcement follows Gaetz's withdrawal from the Cabinet nomination process amid mounting allegations of sexual misconduct and ongoing federal and House Ethics investigations. Despite vehemently denying the accusations against him, Gaetz acknowledged that the controversy surrounding him had raised doubts about his ability to be confirmed as the nation's chief federal law enforcement officer.
His nomination as attorney general had surprised many within the Justice Department, reflecting Trump's desire to appoint a loyalist to a department he viewed as needing retribution following legal challenges he faced during his presidency.
Following Gaetz's withdrawal, Trump nominated Pam Bondi, a former Florida attorney general, to the position. Bondi brings extensive legal experience and loyalty to the role, qualities that Trump values highly.
With Gaetz no longer a member of the House, his future political career remains uncertain. Despite speculation that he could still serve another term in Congress after his recent reelection, Gaetz has made it clear that he is stepping away from federal politics. Having spent 14 years in state and national politics, Gaetz expressed that he believes his time in Congress has come to an end.
“I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress,' Gaetz stated.
