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Within hours of being tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the next attorney general, former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) reportedly began working to revamp his image and secure the position, according to a new report. However, Gaetz’s journey to confirmation may not be an easy one, told by CNN.
The MAGA loyalist, known for playing a central role in the ouster of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), has earned a reputation in Congress as an “acid-tongued, anti-establishment knife fighter who didn’t come to Washington to make friends,” according to The Bulwark. This combative persona may present challenges as Gaetz now seeks to secure the prestigious post of attorney general.
“But now Gaetz wants to become the next attorney general of the United States. And he is doing something he rarely has since breaking out on the national scene: trying to make nice with fellow lawmakers, mainly the U.S. senators—the ultimate bastion of the political establishment—who are tasked with confirming him to the post,” the report said.
A central part of Gaetz’s strategy is to convince lawmakers that he has the “temperament” to lead the Justice Department. Additionally, he has sought to address the longstanding sexual misconduct allegations against him involving a minor, which he has consistently denied.
“In private conversations with senators, Gaetz has been reiterating his denials and, sources say, he’s getting an assist from Vice President-elect JD Vance. The Ohio senator, who remains a member of the chamber until the new Congress is sworn in, has been lobbying skeptical senators,” the report revealed.
Despite Gaetz’s efforts, some senators remain hesitant. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) emphasized the importance of a thorough vetting process, particularly regarding the ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into Gaetz.
“We have a constitutional role to play of providing advice and consent,” Cornyn told The Bulwark. “That’s our role. The president’s role is to make the nomination. But we need to have a complete vetting of the nominees. Not only so we know that the nominee is qualified, but also to protect the president. I’m sure it’s not in his best interest to have any surprises.”
As Gaetz works to secure his nomination, the confirmation process will likely hinge on the results of further investigations and the willingness of senators to accept his denials and leadership style.
