Matt Gaetz Withdraws Nomination for Attorney General Amid Allegations

Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz has withdrawn his nomination for the position of U.S. Attorney General, citing the controversies surrounding his candidacy. In a statement on Thursday, Gaetz acknowledged that his nomination had caused significant public debate, including allegations involving payments for sexual relations with underage women.

While Gaetz noted that his nomination had received strong support, he admitted that it had become a distraction, potentially hindering the important work of President-elect Trump’s transition team. "It became clear that my nomination was causing unnecessary disruption to the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition," Gaetz stated. "I cannot afford to waste time in Washington on needless controversy. The Department of Justice must be ready from day one."

Gaetz's decision to withdraw follows a series of serious allegations against him, including claims of paying for sex with minors and engaging in illegal drug use. Despite Gaetz's denial of these allegations, they led to an ongoing investigation by the House Ethics Committee, which remained active even after his resignation from Congress.

His withdrawal from the Attorney General nomination has sparked significant political discussion, raising further scrutiny on the allegations against him and the overall process of selecting a new Attorney General under the incoming administration.