Matt Gaetz faces GOP Senate opposition after Trump selection for attorney general

President-elect Trump’s latest selection for his next administration, Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., as his attorney general pick is facing immediate backlash from some within the Senate GOP. Several Republican senators have expressed doubts about his confirmation, with one senator even saying, “He will never get confirmed.”

The criticism stems from ongoing investigations into Gaetz’s conduct, including a House Ethics investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and accepting improper gifts. Despite Gaetz’s office referring to his response that it would be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General, Senate Republicans are hesitant to support his nomination.

Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, emphasized the Senate’s constitutional responsibility to consider any nominee seriously. When asked about the ongoing House Ethics investigation into Gaetz, Sen. Cornyn acknowledged that it might factor into his confirmation.

Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., who chairs the Ethics Committee, noted that once Gaetz is no longer a member of Congress, the ethics investigation would cease. However, Senate Republicans, including Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, emphasized the importance of thorough background checks, FBI investigations, and the advice and consent process in the Senate.

Despite the controversy surrounding Gaetz, President-elect Trump announced his selection on Wednesday. While some Senate Republicans, like Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., have stated that Gaetz will go through the nomination process like everyone else, others, like Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., have remained noncommittal on the nomination.

In addition to the ethics investigation, Gaetz was previously under investigation by the Department of Justice for sex trafficking allegations. However, his office stated that the DOJ ended the investigation last year and determined that he would not be charged with any crimes.

While Senate Republicans may be hesitant to confirm Gaetz, Trump could potentially appoint him through a recess appointment. Senate Minority Whip John Thune, R-S.D., who won the leader election on Wednesday, signaled openness to recess appointments but did not commit to it.

If Trump were to successfully appoint Gaetz through a recess appointment, he would be able to serve in the role for nearly two years. The appointment would expire once the next session of Congress adjourns.

In conclusion, the nomination of Rep. Matt Gaetz as Attorney General is facing scrutiny from Senate Republicans due to ongoing investigations into his conduct. While some senators are open to considering his nomination, others have expressed doubts about his confirmation. President-elect Trump may resort to a recess appointment to appoint Gaetz if faced with resistance from the Senate.