Matt Gaetz has withdrawn his nomination for Attorney General after controversy surrounding sexual misconduct allegations. The decision marks a setback for President Trump’s incoming administration, as Gaetz steps down to avoid distraction and prolonged conflict.

Matt Gaetz Withdraws from Attorney General Consideration Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Matt Gaetz, the former Florida Congressman, has withdrawn from consideration for the role of Attorney General after days of debate regarding the release of a congressional report on allegations of sexual misconduct against him. On X (formerly Twitter), the 42-year-old stated that the controversy surrounding his potential nomination had “unfairly become a distraction” to the incoming Trump administration’s work.

The report included findings from an investigation that stemmed from accusations of sexual misconduct and drug use. Gaetz has denied all claims but expressed a desire to avoid a prolonged conflict in Washington. His decision to step down represents a setback for President-elect Donald Trump, who had nominated Gaetz for the position.

Trump, speaking on his Truth Social platform, acknowledged Gaetz’s efforts and praised his commitment, adding that Gaetz did not want to be a distraction to the administration. “He was doing very well, but at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump wrote.

In his post on X, Gaetz emphasized the importance of having the Justice Department fully operational by the time the new administration takes office in January. He reiterated his commitment to supporting Trump’s success and expressed honor over the nomination, stating, “I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice.”

The long-running investigation into allegations of sex, drugs, and bribery—conducted by the congressional ethics panel—cast a shadow over Gaetz’s nomination, making it likely he would face difficulties being confirmed by the Senate. Concerns over the nomination were raised by lawmakers, including some Senate Republicans, prompting a major behind-the-scenes effort by Gaetz and Trump to secure the necessary support.

The day before Gaetz’s withdrawal, the House Ethics Committee, which had compiled the report, convened behind closed doors but failed to reach a decision on whether the report should be made public. The committee remained evenly divided, with a 5-5 vote along party lines. Gaetz had resigned from his House seat the previous week following Trump’s nomination.

The allegations against Gaetz include a woman’s claims that she attended a 2017 party where Gaetz was allegedly involved with a minor. The woman’s lawyer later stated that she and another witness were paid by Gaetz for sex. A separate three-year federal investigation into sex trafficking allegations against Gaetz ended without charges.

Looking ahead, Gaetz has not provided details on his next steps, though President Trump has expressed confidence in his “wonderful future.” While it’s unlikely Gaetz will return to the House—especially given the potential release of the Ethics Committee report—there are speculations about a possible return to Congress, potentially in the Senate. If Senator Marco Rubio, nominated as Trump’s Secretary of State, vacates his seat, Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis could appoint Gaetz to fill the position.