Matt Gaetz Declines Congressional Seat
Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) announced he will not return to Congress in the 119th session, choosing instead to support President-elect Donald Trump and his agenda from a different role. Gaetz had recently won reelection but confirmed on Friday during an interview with Charlie Kirk on The Charlie Kirk Show that he would not take his seat in January.
JUST IN: Matt Gaetz tells Charlie Kirk that he does *not* intend on joining the 119th Congress, hints he has other plans "from a new perch."
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 22, 2024
The statement comes after Gaetz withdrew his name from the AG nomination.
"I'm still going to be in the fight, but it's going to be from… pic.twitter.com/CU7ipJvSWl
Gaetz expressed optimism for the future of his congressional district in Northwest Florida, and talked about the strong candidates stepping forward to succeed him. “There are a number of fantastic Floridians who’ve stepped up to run for my seat, people who have inspired with their heroism and public service. I’m excited to see Northwest Florida go to new heights and have great representation,” he said.
Decision to Withdraw as Attorney General Nominee
Gaetz also addressed his decision to withdraw from consideration as Trump’s nominee for attorney general, citing the urgency for immediate action under the new administration. He noted that a confirmation process for him would likely be prolonged due to allegations in a House Ethics Committee report.
The report contained allegations from sources that Gaetz claimed were deemed “not credible” by the Department of Justice under corrupt Attorney General Merrick Garland. While he believed he could have handled the scrutiny, Gaetz emphasized the need for an attorney general ready to act on day one.
“I could have answered all those questions and engaged in a months-long fact battle, but we don’t have months for that,” he said. “We need an A.G. ready to implement Trump’s immigration agenda and other key deregulatory policies immediately.”
Pam Bondi Named as New Nominee
President-elect Trump has since chosen former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as his nominee for the role. Gaetz praised Bondi, calling her a “phenomenal” choice with the experience and legal expertise to lead the Justice Department effectively.
“She has the legal acumen. She hates criminals. She is a bright legal mind and a fellow Floridian,” Gaetz said. “Her confirmation process won’t have the sharp edges mine would have, and she’ll be ready to implement Trump’s policies on day one.”
The Left is not exactly stoked for Pam Bondi either.
Make America Great Again
Gaetz reiterated his loyalty to Trump and his continued commitment to the MAGA movement. “I’m going to be doing whatever he asks of me, as I always have. But I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress,” he said.
Gaetz’s departure from Congress and his withdrawal as attorney general nominee signal a new chapter in his political career as he seeks to support the Trump administration from outside the legislature.
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