Matt Gaetz, once target of DOJ sex trafficking probe, tapped by Trump as attorney general pick

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as his choice for U.S. attorney general, sparking controversy given Gaetz’s history as a target of a Department of Justice (DOJ) sex trafficking investigation and an ongoing House Ethics Committee review.

The DOJ investigation initially explored allegations that Gaetz paid escorts and underage girls for sex and gifts. Though the inquiry ended without federal charges, questions persist. Gaetz has strongly denied any wrongdoing, stating last year, “The investigation ended with no charges against me.”

Rep. Michael Guest, chair of the House Ethics Committee, confirmed the committee’s probe remains active, though Gaetz’s resignation from Congress will remove its jurisdiction. House Republicans were split on Gaetz’s potential confirmation. “I have a hard time believing Gaetz will be confirmed,” said Republican Rep. Mike Simpson of Idaho, while Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska also expressed doubt.

Following Trump’s announcement, Gaetz posted on social media, “It will be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General!” Earlier, he indicated a readiness to confront government “weaponization,” stating he would consider dismantling “three-letter agencies” like the FBI and ATF if confirmed.

Trump commended Gaetz’s commitment to addressing “systemic corruption” in the DOJ, asserting that his pick would restore the department to “its true mission of fighting crime and upholding our democracy.”