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Former Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for U.S. attorney general on Tuesday. He cited concerns that his confirmation process had become a distraction. Trump wasted no time, announcing former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as his new nominee for the role.
“It is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition,” Gaetz wrote in a social media post. He described his meetings with senators as productive and supportive but acknowledged that ongoing scrutiny surrounding past allegations made his confirmation prospects difficult.
The former Florida congressman faced intense media and political attention due to past investigations by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the House Ethics Committee. These inquiries focused on allegations of misconduct, including claims of improper relationships. While the DOJ concluded its investigation last year without filing charges, leaks and media reports reignited the controversy, raising concerns about the confirmation process.
“There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle,” Gaetz said, adding that Trump’s DOJ must be “in place and ready on Day 1.”
In response to Gaetz’s withdrawal, Trump praised his efforts and expressed optimism about his future. “Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Pam Bondi Takes Center Stage
Shortly after Gaetz stepped aside, Trump announced Pam Bondi as his new nominee for attorney general. A seasoned prosecutor and former Florida attorney general, Bondi is no stranger to Trump’s circle.
“Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on violent criminals and made the streets safe for Florida families,” Trump said in his announcement. Bondi served as Florida’s attorney general from 2011 to 2019 and played a prominent role in Trump’s first impeachment defense team. She also chaired Trump’s opioid and drug abuse commission during his administration.
Known as a staunch advocate for Trump’s America First policies, Bondi has been critical of what she calls the “weaponization” of the justice system against Trump and his allies. Her nomination has drawn praise from key Republicans, including Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), who called her “a brilliant attorney” and urged the Senate to confirm her quickly.
Bondi’s record includes a strong focus on combating opioid abuse, tackling corruption, and prosecuting cases ranging from domestic violence to capital murder. As Trump’s pick for attorney general, she is expected to refocus the DOJ on crime prevention and national safety.
“I have known Pam for many years—she is smart and tough, and is an America First fighter,” Trump said.
A Controversial Exit, A Confident Replacement
While Gaetz’s withdrawal ends speculation about his future role in the Trump administration, it has left some Republicans reflecting on his impact. Known for his confrontational style and loyalty to Trump, Gaetz had a polarizing presence in Washington.
His nomination was met with opposition from Democrats and hesitancy from some Republicans. Comparisons to past high-profile confirmation battles, such as Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s hearings, hinted at the challenges Gaetz might have faced.
Now, all eyes turn to Pam Bondi, who many believe will bring experience and focus to Trump’s team. With her record of advocacy and legal expertise, Bondi represents a strategic choice for the president-elect as he prepares his administration to tackle crime and national challenges head-on.
As the Senate prepares for the confirmation process, Trump supporters and allies remain confident in Bondi’s ability to carry forward the administration’s mission.