In Washington, President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Matt Gaetz as attorney general is raising concerns among congressional Republicans, with calls for the release of an internal ethics report on Gaetz's past conduct. Gaetz, a former U.S. Representative, faced a House Ethics Committee probe into allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use before he resigned from Congress. This resignation technically ended the committee’s investigation, but Senate Republicans, including Senator John Cornyn, have expressed strong interest in seeing the report.
Senator Cornyn, who holds a senior position on the Judiciary Committee overseeing Gaetz’s confirmation process, emphasized the importance of having unrestricted access to the House’s findings. "Absolutely," he said when asked if he wanted to review the report, explaining that such access is essential for transparency.
Adding to the scrutiny, an attorney for an alleged victim involved in a previous Justice Department investigation of Gaetz also urged the committee to release its findings. This case, which involved allegations of sex trafficking, ended without charges being brought against Gaetz. Yet, public controversy continues, with notable figures questioning Gaetz’s suitability for the role.
Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats, led by Senator Dick Durbin, have echoed the call for transparency, underscoring the many questions surrounding Gaetz’s background. Gaetz’s controversial history in Congress further complicates his nomination. Known for leading efforts to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Gaetz's actions have left him with few allies among his former House colleagues. Republican Senator Kevin Cramer referred to Gaetz as "destructive," expressing doubts over his ability to garner Senate support.
Nonetheless, some Republicans are prepared to back Trump’s pick, arguing that the president-elect should have the team he believes will best serve his agenda. Trump himself has suggested he may sidestep Senate approval to appoint key personnel, if necessary. Gaetz’s nomination, however, is expected to face a challenging confirmation process, especially given his inexperience with the Justice Department and his radical suggestions, including the dissolution of the FBI.
Trump’s advisors have stressed the critical role of the attorney general, particularly for Trump’s stated goals of extensive Justice Department reforms, deportation efforts, and addressing those involved in investigations against him. With the ethics report still unreleased, it remains to be seen how much influence it will have on Gaetz's chances of confirmation when Trump assumes office in January.
