Rep. Matt Gaetz has resigned from Congress after being selected by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as attorney general. His resignation letter, which took effect immediately, caught House Speaker Mike Johnson and other congressional members by surprise. Johnson said Gaetz’s decision was motivated by his desire to avoid excessive absences in the House, where Republicans are expected to hold a slim majority in the upcoming term.
With Gaetz’s departure, Trump has now selected three House Republicans for prominent roles in his administration, potentially weakening the already tight GOP majority in the House. Johnson stressed that every member’s presence will be critical for maintaining legislative control and that Gaetz’s sudden exit could affect the GOP’s stability. Nevertheless, Johnson said the party is working quickly to secure a replacement.
Under Florida state law, an election to fill Gaetz’s seat could be held as soon as eight weeks after his resignation, potentially enabling a new representative to assume office by January 3.
Gaetz Steps Down from Congress After Attorney General Appointment by Trump, Surprising GOP Leadership
Speaker Johnson has already reached out to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who can arrange a special election to ensure that Florida’s 1st Congressional District, a heavily Republican area, remains in GOP hands. Johnson said DeSantis, currently traveling overseas, has been alerted to the situation to expedite the process.
Gaetz’s nomination as attorney general is expected to be controversial. Within hours of the announcement, his selection sparked mixed reactions from Republicans. Some House Republicans derided the decision, and several GOP senators, who would need to confirm Gaetz’s appointment, expressed skepticism.
Given Gaetz’s polarizing reputation and the sensitive role of attorney general, his confirmation hearings may be especially contentious.
Gaetz’s resignation also brings an end to a House ethics investigation into allegations of misconduct, including accusations of sexual misconduct, improper gift acceptance, and illicit drug use.
If confirmed as attorney general, Gaetz would lead the Justice Department, which had previously conducted a two-year investigation into him over sex trafficking allegations before ultimately declining to press charges. This background adds complexity to his potential leadership of the department that once investigated him.
