WASHINGTON — Former Republican Representative Matt Gaetz announced Thursday that he is withdrawing from consideration to serve as attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump, citing concerns that his confirmation process had become a distraction for the incoming administration.
Gaetz, who was nominated by Trump earlier this month, shared his decision in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “It is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz wrote. “There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as attorney general.”
The decision came after Gaetz met with Republican senators earlier in the week, where questions surrounding his confirmation had reportedly raised doubts among key lawmakers. Gaetz expressed his gratitude for the support he had received, writing that he was “honored” by Trump’s nomination and remained committed to ensuring Trump’s success as president.
Trump, who had been lobbying lawmakers to support Gaetz’s nomination, released a statement following the announcement, saying, “I greatly appreciate the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General. He was doing very well but…did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect.” Trump added that Gaetz has a “wonderful future” and praised his efforts.
Gaetz’s withdrawal marks the latest hurdle in Trump’s transition process as he seeks to finalize key appointments ahead of his inauguration.