Charlie Dent, a former Republican congressman from Pennsylvania, expressed doubts about Matt Gaetz’s (R-Fla.) chance of securing the position of attorney general under President-elect Trump. He predicted that Gaetz’s nomination would eventually be withdrawn due to mounting controversies.
In an interview with CNN’s Abby Phillip, Dent suggested that Gaetz’s nomination was likely to falter, calling it “a bridge too far.” Gaetz has been under scrutiny due to an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation, which was triggered in 2021 after reports emerged of a potential Department of Justice (DOJ) inquiry into his alleged sexual relationship with a 17-year-old and claims of drug abuse.
Gaetz denies allegations but faces backlash over subpoena defiance
Gaetz has consistently denied the accusations, and the DOJ chose not to press charges. However, Gaetz refused to comply with the Ethics Committee’s subpoena, declaring that he would no longer participate in what he described as an intrusive investigation.
Dent also warned that the Ethics Committee report, once released, could be damaging to Gaetz. He reflected on his own experience as chairman of the House Ethics Committee, stressing that such reports rarely reflect well on their subjects. “You don’t resign if the report’s gonna be clean,” Dent stated, referring to Gaetz’s decision to step down shortly after the nomination.
However, Gaetz’s past actions, particularly his role in leading the effort to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, have added to his political challenges. McCarthy resigned after Gaetz spearheaded the effort, with the former Speaker suggesting that Gaetz’s motivation stemmed from an ethics complaint against him.
Dent further elaborated on the challenges Gaetz faces, pointing to the overwhelming disdain he has among his fellow House Republicans. He emphasized the intensity of this opposition, stating that the dislike Gaetz faces within his party is far deeper than most would realize.
