Trump Taps Loyalist Pam Bondi for Attorney General After Matt Gaetz Withdraws

US conservative firebrand Matt Gaetz has announced his withdrawal from consideration for the role of United States Attorney General following renewed scrutiny of past sexual misconduct allegations against him. 

In a swift move, former President Donald Trump named Pam Bondi, a former Florida Attorney General and staunch Trump ally, as his new nominee for the position. Bondi, who leads the legal arm of the America First Policy Institute, previously served on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial.

Gaetz, who was announced as Trump’s pick just over a week ago, stated that he had become a “distraction” amid mounting opposition to his nomination in the US Senate, where cabinet appointments require confirmation votes. 

“There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle,” Gaetz wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Thus, I’ll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1. I remain fully committed to ensuring Donald J. Trump is the most successful president in history.”

Known for his divisive approach, even within Republican circles, Gaetz faced criticism stemming from allegations of sexual relations with a 17-year-old girl in 2017—an act considered a crime under Florida law. Although he denied any wrongdoing and was not charged in a federal sex-trafficking investigation that concluded last year, the allegations continued to shadow him. 

Further controversy arose from a House Ethics Committee probe into claims that Gaetz paid women for sex on multiple occasions. Joel Leppard, a lawyer representing two women, testified that one witness saw Gaetz engaging in sexual activity with a 17-year-old at a Florida party. However, the woman claimed Gaetz was unaware of her age at the time and resumed their relationship only after she turned 18.

Amid the backlash, Gaetz resigned from his seat in the US House of Representatives following Trump’s initial announcement of his nomination. It remains unclear whether Gaetz will return to Congress, where he was recently re-elected, or pursue other opportunities.

Trump expressed gratitude for Gaetz’s contributions, posting on Truth Social, “He was doing very well but did not want to be a distraction for the administration. Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!”

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