Matt Gaetz is stepping down from Trump’s job as attorney general

“While the momentum has been strong, it is clear that my confirmation has unfairly become a distraction for the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition.”

Former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz walks with Vice President-elect JD Vance as they arrive for meetings with senators at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

By the Associated Press

updated on November 21, 2024 | 12:47 PM

WASHINGTON (AP) — Matt Gaetz was removed as attorney general by President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday after an ongoing investigation into a federal sex-trafficking probe cast doubt on the former congressman’s ability to be confirmed as police chief federal of the nation.

The Florida Republican’s announcement came a day after meeting with senators in an effort to win their support for his confirmation to head the Justice Department.

“While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation has unfairly become a distraction from the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition,” Gaetz said in a statement announcing his decision. “There is no time to waste with an unnecessarily prolonged argument in Washington, so I will withdraw my name from consideration for the position of attorney general. Trump’s DOJ needs to be in place and ready on day 1.”

Gaetz’s withdrawal is a blow to Trump’s efforts to install staunch loyalists in his new administration and the first sign that Trump may face resistance from members of his own party.