Matt Gaetz gives up on becoming Minister of Justice, a first setback for the president-elect

His appointment appeared to be one of the most controversial, due to both his personality and his lack of legal experience.

He retreats. Matt Gaetz, chosen by Donald Trump for the strategic position of Minister of Justice, threw in the towel on Thursday, November 21, a first setback for the elected Republican president in the composition of his government. Of the entire series of sensational appointments announced by Donald Trump, that of the elected Republican from Florida (southeast) appeared to be one of the most controversial, due to both his personality and his lack of legal experience. .

“Despite strong momentum, it is clear that the confirmation of my nomination was unfairly becoming a distraction from the crucial task of the Trump/Vance transition team”explained Matt Gaetz on X, the day after a meeting with senators in preparation for the Senate hearings next year to confirm his nomination. “There is no time to waste in a needlessly prolonged fight in Washington, which is why I will withdraw from the nomination process for Minister of Justice”he added.

Targeted by an investigation by the House of Representatives, Matt Gaetz resigned from this assembly on November 13 shortly after the announcement of Donald Trump's choice to take over a ministry that he considers particularly hostile. His resignation had de facto put an end to the investigation by the House Ethics Committee into paid sexual relations, including with a minor, which he denies, illegal consumption of narcotics, embezzlement of campaign funds and various professional misconduct.

Donald Trump endorsed his withdrawal, expressing on his Truth Social network his “respect” to Matt Gaetz for this decision and promising him a “beautiful future”.