Scott Jennings, a CNN pundit, expressed doubt about President-elect Trump’s ability to successfully nominate former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for Attorney General. Gaetz’s candidacy has become embroiled in controversy due to serious allegations, including investigations into sexual misconduct and drug use.
The Department of Justice is reportedly investigating whether Gaetz had a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl, which has raised significant concerns regarding his suitability for the position of Attorney General.
In a conversation with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Jennings discussed the challenges Trump faces in garnering support for Gaetz. He noted that many GOP senators, not just those who have previously disagreed with Trump, are likely to oppose Gaetz due to the seriousness of the allegations.
Jennings acknowledged the immense resistance Trump would encounter, casting doubt on whether the president-elect could secure enough backing to push Gaetz’s nomination through.
The controversy surrounding Gaetz has intensified with calls for the House Ethics Committee to release its findings from an ongoing investigation into his conduct.
Donald Trump
The committee typically does not release such findings for former lawmakers, but with the stakes high, there is increasing pressure for transparency. The Senate is waiting for any pertinent information before making a decision, and the committee was set to meet to determine how to proceed.
Despite the mounting pressure, Jennings pointed out that there is still time before the new Congress convenes to vote on Trump’s nominees. He speculated that Trump might eventually decide to withdraw Gaetz’s nomination if it becomes clear that the Senate will not confirm him.
Jennings explained that presidents often choose to avoid a public defeat by pulling a controversial nominee rather than risking a failed confirmation vote.
Finally, Jennings argued that Gaetz’s situation stands apart from other controversial nominations. The resistance to Gaetz is stronger than that faced by Trump’s other picks, and the number of emerging issues regarding Gaetz’s past actions only complicates the matter further.
According to Jennings, Gaetz’s case is in a “separate category” due to the growing opposition and the daily revelations surrounding his alleged misconduct.
