With Gaetz dropping out, do Hegseth, RFK Jr. and Gabbard now have bigger targets on their backs?

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz’s decision to withdraw as President-elect Trump’s nominee for attorney general has sent shockwaves through the Trump administration, raising concerns about the viability of other controversial picks for top administration positions. Gaetz’s announcement came as Pete Hegseth, Trump’s choice for defense secretary, faced his own set of sexual misconduct allegations.

Hegseth, a highly-respected combat veteran and former Fox News host, has denied the allegations and insisted that the encounter in question was consensual. However, with Gaetz stepping aside, Hegseth is now likely to face increased scrutiny from the media and senators alike. Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer acknowledged the seriousness of the accusations against Hegseth, particularly in light of the ongoing issue of sexual assault in the military.

As attention shifts to potential replacements for Gaetz, all eyes are on Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Trump’s picks for Health and Human Services secretary and director of national intelligence, respectively. Both Kennedy and Gabbard have faced criticism for past controversial comments, leading to concerns about their own confirmation processes.

While Trump’s transition team remains confident in Hegseth’s confirmation, there are growing concerns about the overall vetting process for administration nominees. Republican Sen. Thom Tillis has urged Kennedy to address any potential issues before facing senators on Capitol Hill, indicating a potential rocky road ahead for these controversial picks.

Despite the challenges ahead, a Republican strategist suggested that Gaetz’s withdrawal may serve as a sacrificial lamb, providing cover for other nominees to proceed more smoothly. With Gaetz out of the picture, the GOP conference is expected to be more unified in supporting Hegseth, Gabbard, and Kennedy as they navigate their confirmation processes.

In the wake of Gaetz’s withdrawal, the Trump administration faces a critical juncture in selecting candidates for key positions. As the vetting process continues, all eyes will be on Hegseth, Kennedy, and Gabbard as they seek to overcome their own controversies and secure confirmation from the Senate.