Matt Gaetz Withdraws as Attorney General Nominee

Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination for U.S. Attorney General just eight days after being nominated by President-elect Donald Trump, amid escalating controversies and new allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor. His exit followed a CNN report detailing a woman's claim that she had sexual encounters with Gaetz when she was 17, and came as the House Ethics Committee was deliberating on a report concerning his alleged misconduct. Gaetz's nomination had already divided Republicans, with prominent figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson supporting him while others, including former national security adviser John Bolton, condemned the choice. Despite Gaetz's efforts to secure Senate support, it became clear he lacked the votes necessary for confirmation, leading him to step down to avoid becoming a distraction during the Trump transition. Gaetz has denied all allegations against him, which include claims of sexual misconduct and drug use. His withdrawal marks a significant setback for Trump's administration, which had initially backed Gaetz despite warnings from party members.