US President-Elect Donald Trump Appoints Matt Gaetz, Accused of Sexual Misconduct, Bribery, and Drug Use, as Attorney General

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, November 13, that he intends to nominate Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz as the next Attorney General.

Gaetz, a prominent far-right supporter and Trump ally, would assume one of the most influential roles in the U.S. government if confirmed.

In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that Gaetz would “end Weaponized Government, protect our Borders, dismantle Criminal Organizations, and restore Americans’ badly-shattered Faith and Confidence in the Justice Department.”

As Attorney General, Matt Gaetz would become the nation’s chief law enforcement officer, overseeing government stances on pivotal issues such as abortion, civil rights, and First Amendment rights.

Gaetz, 42, has been the subject of a House ethics investigation over allegations of sexual misconduct, bribery, and drug use—claims he has denied.

He also faced unsubstantiated accusations of sex trafficking involving a 17-year-old, which he has repeatedly dismissed. Trump’s announcement of Gaetz’s nomination has ignited backlash among his critics.

Trump simultaneously revealed plans to nominate Tulsi Gabbard, who previously stirred controversy with her remarks on alleged “biolabs” in Ukraine, as Director of National Intelligence, and Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense.