Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware expressed on Wednesday that the appointment of Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general by President-elect Trump represents a “deadly serious challenge” to the Senate’s constitutional duty to advise and consent on presidential nominations.
During an appearance on CNN’s “The Lead” with Jake Tapper, Coons mentioned he would participate in the confirmation process, emphasizing the importance of assessing a nominee’s qualifications and background thoroughly.
Sen. Chris Coons decries Gaetz’s nomination as a “deadly serious challenge” to Senate duties
“This challenges the Senate’s essential role in providing advice and consent, and as a Judiciary Committee member, I will engage fully in evaluating the nominee’s qualifications, ethics, character, and policy views,” Coons explained, sharing his initial shock upon learning of Gaetz’s selection.
Coons echoed Sen. Marco Rubio’s remarks, acknowledging that while the president can select his nominees, the Senate plays a crucial role in ensuring nominees are suitable for their roles. “That’s generally correct,” Coons said, supporting Rubio’s statement.
“However, the Senate has a duty to evaluate if someone is appropriate for the role, especially when it comes to the position of attorney general, who is the nation’s highest-ranking law enforcement official.” Coons highlighted that Gaetz’s confirmation is expected to be rigorously scrutinized due to past allegations and ongoing investigations into his conduct by the Justice Department and the House Ethics Committee.
“With existing ethics inquiries, allegations concerning Congressman Gaetz, and his behavior, I anticipate a rigorous review process,” Coons stated. He further expressed hope that Republican colleagues would encourage Trump to reconsider this nomination.
Trump’s decision to nominate Gaetz, a loyal ally during the impeachment proceedings, as attorney general was announced on Wednesday, surprising many Senate Republicans. Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, both moderates, voiced their astonishment, with Murkowski criticizing the choice, describing it as lacking seriousness.
“I don’t view this as a serious nomination for attorney general. We need someone who brings gravitas to the role,” Murkowski commented, adding that the selection was unexpected. Murkowski told Punchbowl News she was genuinely shocked by the nomination, underscoring the Senate’s responsibility to provide oversight through its advice and consent role.
Murkowski noted, “The Senate’s advice and consent role is essential here. Gaetz’s hearing will undoubtedly bring up numerous questions.” When asked if he believed there would be enough Republican opposition to block Gaetz’s confirmation, Coons replied, “I’m not certain.”
He added, “The Senate’s crucial task is to serve as a safeguard, affirming that while we confirm a president’s nominees, it won’t be indiscriminate or without consideration of character and qualifications.”
