Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general may be facing a tough road to confirmation. It only took a few hours for GOP senators to put up resistance to Matt Gaetz as the nation’s top lawyer.
“He will never get confirmed,” an anonymous Republican senator told Fox News Digital, highlighting the uphill battle Gaetz faces in the Senate. Another GOP insider bluntly stated, “Ain’t gonna happen,” in reference to Gaetz’s prospects.
Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) emphasized the Senate’s responsibility to vet nominees thoroughly, noting the ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into Gaetz, which includes allegations of sexual misconduct and improper gifts. “I think we have to consider any nominee by the president seriously, but we also have a constitutional responsibility,” Cornyn said.
Although Gaetz responded to the nomination with enthusiasm, posting on social media platform X, “It will be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General!” his team has declined to comment on the backlash.
It will be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General! pic.twitter.com/dg0iQ0bA6Y
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) November 13, 2024
Some members of Congress have raised concerns over the ethics investigation’s potential impact. Ethics Committee Chair Michael Guest (R-Miss.) clarified that the inquiry would be terminated if Gaetz were confirmed, as the committee only has jurisdiction over sitting members.
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) echoed the sentiment about Gaetz’s nomination. “I was shocked at the nomination,” Collins said.
“This is why the Senate’s advise and consent process is so important. I’m sure that there will be many, many questions raised at Mr Gaetz’s hearing,” she added.
The Republicans will have a 53-seat majority in the U.S. Senate, but have signaled a willingness to allow Trump’s cabinet to be installed via recess appointments.
“We must act quickly and decisively to get the president’s nominees in place as soon as possible, & all options are on the table to make that happen, including recess appointments. We cannot let Schumer and Senate Dems block the will of the American people,” newly-elected GOP Senate Leader John Thune (R-SD) said earlier in the week.
