Matt Gaetz reveals what he plans to do next as he claims ‘smear’ campaign killed attorney general nomination
Florida lawyer says he won’t be returning to Congress
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Matt Gaetz has revealed more about his future plans, capping off a tumultous two weeks that saw him get picked as Donald Trump’s attorney general nominee, resign from Congress, then withdraw from consideration on Thursday amid sexual misconduct allegations.
First off, the former Florida rep will not return to Congress, he told conservative activist Charlie Kirk, in an interview slated to air on Friday, answering lingering questions about whether a special election would be called to fill his vacant seat.
“There are a number of fantastic Floridians who’ve stepped up to run for my seat, people who have inspired with their heroism, with their public service,” Gaetz said.
During the interview, Gaetz reportedly addressed allegations that he both paid women for sex and had sex with a minor, which he has always strongly denied.
The Florida Republican claimed the allegations were part of an effort to derail his nomination, rooted in blowback to his successful effort to unseat House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
“There is a play that is run in Washington when they’re trying to smear somebody and, you know, they go and dredge up false, years old allegations of the most salacious and click bait,” he reportedly said.
“If the things [in] the House Ethics report were true, I would be under indictment and probably in a prison cell,” he reportedly added in the interview.
The Justice Department already investigated the allegations and declined to pursue charges against Gaetz, while a House ethics committee probed the allegations until Gaetz resigned, effectively ending their effort.
With Congress off the table, Gaetz said he intends to help the Trump administration recruit for key positions.
“I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch,” he reportedly said.
The incoming administration moved quickly to choose a new nominee for attorney general, tapping longtime Trump ally and former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Bondi, as The Independent has reported, has a long record as a prosecutor, pursuing high-profile cases against drugmakers and the oil giant BP. She’s also been a party in multiple ethics scandals, including rescheduling a state execution to make way for a fundraiser, and receiving a donation from Trump while her office was considering complaints against his “Trump University” seminar program.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments