Donald Trump's pick Matt Gaetz pulls out of US attorney general race: 'Becoming a distraction'

WASHINGTON, DC: Former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz announced Thursday, November 21, that he has withdrawn his name from consideration to serve as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for US Attorney General.

Gaetz cited concerns that his nomination had become a distraction for the incoming administration. 

Matt Gaetz cites momentum and distractions in withdrawal announcement

Matt Gaetz's decision follows mounting controversies surrounding his potential confirmation, despite strong support from several lawmakers during the process.

In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Gaetz addressed his reasons for stepping aside.

“I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many,” he wrote.

“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,” Gaetz added.

“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," he wrote.

Gaetz shared words of support for Trump, saying, “Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1, adding, "I remain fully committed to see 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 concluded the statement. 

Matt Gaetz's nomination faced challenges as allegations and ethics probe intensified scrutiny

Matt Gaetz’s candidacy faced intense scrutiny due to past allegations, including accusations of intimate relationships with an underage girl and related financial misconduct.

Although federal investigators ultimately dropped the case without filing charges, the allegations remained a focal point.

Additionally, a House ethics committee had been investigating Gaetz on related matters and other controversies.

According to The Guardian, the committee deadlocked in a 5-5 partisan vote on releasing its findings just before Gaetz withdrew. 

The committee, which is evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats, was reportedly set to release its report before his withdrawal announcement.

Donald Trump praises Matt Gaetz’s decision to step aside 

Donald Trump later addressed the situation on Truth Social, expressing gratitude for Matt Gaetz’s efforts during the confirmation process.

“I greatly appreciate the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General,” Trump wrote.

“He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump added.

“Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!” the President-elect concluded.