Donald Trump’s nomination of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) for attorney general surprised Democrats, Republicans — and even GOP lawmaker’s father, Politico reports.
Don Gaetz, 76, is also one of the Sunshine State’s prominent politicos, having secured a state senate seat in the 2024 election.
Don Gaetz and his son’s mother Vicky Gaetz were shocked. He said on Thursday they “really had no prior warning until Matt called us and said that the president just offered me the attorney generalship. I think it’s fair to say Matt was not seeking the job.”
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Matt Gaetz’s nomination comes amid the closed federal investigation into sex trafficking allegations which if found to be substantiated could potentially harm his chance at getting confirmed by the Senate.
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Don Gaetz, also known as ‘Papa Gaetz’, added that “Matt has been investigated by the House Ethics Committee, the Department of Justice, the Federal Elections Commission and probably the Rotary Club,” said Don Gaetz.
However, Don maintains that his son is innocent.
“He’s been investigated by everyone for more than two years and there’s never been any reason to be charged with anything and he’s denied all these fraudulent politically motivated allegations.” Matt Gaetz also denies all sex trafficking allegations.
“Confirmation is always a dice roll,” Don Gaetz said. “Some people are more natural at confirmation. Typically a sitting senator finds it easier to be confirmed. Someone who is way outside may find it harder.”
“Matt is a guy who has always looked for an opportunity to be an advocate for the issues he cares about. He’s been a strong supporter of the president … and a harsh critic of Biden-Harris administration.”
“With Matt at least I have someone in Washington on speed dial,” he said.
Read more details in Politico