Washington: Matt Gaetz, the former U.S. Representative and a Florida Republican, announced he will not return to Congress next year. His statement came during an interview aired on Friday, a day after withdrawing as President-elect Donald Trump’s initial pick for Attorney General amid allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use.
“I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch. I do not intend to join the 119th Congress,” Gaetz said during an interview with conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Withdrawal Amid Scandal
Gaetz, who recently secured another term in Congress, resigned from his seat after being nominated by Trump for the role of Attorney General. His nomination withdrawal followed allegations involving sex with a 17-year-old girl and illicit drug use—accusations he has firmly denied.
The resignation also coincided with the House Ethics Committee’s ongoing investigation into the sexual misconduct claims against him. The committee reportedly deadlocked along party lines on whether to release its findings earlier this week.
Gaetz’s decision marks a significant development, as he becomes the first cabinet-level nominee in Trump’s forthcoming administration to step aside. His withdrawal highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by Trump’s nominees, including Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, who has also faced allegations of misconduct after being named as Defense Secretary.
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Gaetz Praises Bondi’s Nomination
Following Gaetz’s withdrawal, Trump nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, a long-time ally, to the Attorney General position.
In the interview, Gaetz expressed support for Bondi’s appointment and blamed the controversies surrounding him on a politically motivated smear campaign.
“I’m going to be fighting for President Trump. I’m going to be doing whatever he asks of me, as I always have,” Gaetz said. “But I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress.”
