Former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz announced he will not rejoin Congress in January following his withdrawal from consideration as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general. Speaking Friday with Charlie Kirk, Gaetz confirmed his decision to step away from Capitol Hill after serving since 2016.
“I am so excited about where this transition stands, and I know there are people disappointed that I won’t be the next attorney general, but you have to understand this is the political process, and sometimes the path you’re on is one that takes you to a different place, and it could be a glorious place,” Gaetz said.
READ: MSNBC Contributor Melts Down Over Trump’s AG Pick Of Former Florida AG Pam Bondi
Gaetz resigned from the House earlier this month after Trump initially selected him to lead the Department of Justice.
Ultimately, Gaetz withdrew from the nomination of Attorney General after acknowledging he lacked the Senate votes needed for confirmation. He praised Trump’s alternative pick, former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, calling her a “phenomenal attorney general” with the “legal acumen” to lead the Justice Department effectively.
“Pam Bondi’s confirmation won’t have some of the sharp edges that mine would have,” Gaetz said, adding that his selection had unfairly become a distraction.
Gaetz, a vocal ally of Trump and a polarizing figure in Washington, expressed pride in his tenure but noted it was time to move on. “I think eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress,” he said. “There are a number of fantastic Floridians stepping up to run for my seat, and I’m actually excited to see Northwest Florida go to new heights and have great representation.”
READ: Trump Taps Former Florida AG Pam Bondi For US Attorney General
Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi
Pam Bondi served as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, becoming the first woman elected to the position. During her tenure, she was recognized for her efforts in combating human trafficking and prescription drug abuse. Bondi has been a steadfast supporter of Trump, notably serving on his defense team during his first impeachment trial in 2020.
Bondi’s nomination is expected to undergo Senate confirmation. Her extensive legal background and previous support for Trump’s policies may influence the confirmation process. If confirmed, Bondi would oversee the Department of Justice, playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s legal landscape under the incoming administration.
“I am proud to announce former Attorney General of the Great State of Florida, Pam Bondi, as our next Attorney General of the United States. Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on Violent Criminals, and made the streets safe for Florida Families. Then, as Florida’s first female Attorney General, she worked to stop the trafficking of deadly drugs, and reduce the tragedy of Fentanyl Overdose Deaths, which have destroyed many families across our Country. She did such an incredible job, that I asked her to serve on our Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission during my first Term — We saved many lives!” said Trump.
“For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans – Not anymore. Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again. I have known Pam for many years — She is smart and tough, and is an AMERICA FIRST Fighter, who will do a terrific job as Attorney General!” Trump said.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.