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The 42-year-old Gaetz had been the subject of an investigation by the Justice Department involving allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor.
"I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday," Gaetz posted on social media early Thursday afternoon, Nov. 21. "I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many.
"While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance transition.
"There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1."
Trump responded to Gaetz's announcement by posting on Truth Social, "Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!"
Matt Gaetz resigned from Congress on Wednesday, November 13, shortly after Trump announced, following a White House meeting with President Biden, that he had selected Gaetz as his choice for Attorney General.
Gaetz's resignation from the House came just two days before the House Ethics Committee was set to release a report on its investigation into Gaetz's alleged sexual misconduct.
"I remain fully committed to see that Donald J. Trump is the most successful president in history," Gaetz said in his statement. "I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice and I'm certain he will Save America."
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