By Canadian Press

Gaetz withdraws as Trump’s pick for attorney general

Nov 21, 2024 | 9:38 AM

WASHINGTON (AP) — Matt Gaetz has withdrawn as President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation.

The Florida Republican made the announcement Thursday.

Republicans on the House Ethics Committee voted Wednesday against releasing a report on their long-running investigation into President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, former Rep. Matt Gaetz, the top Democrat on the panel said.

Democratic Rep. Susan Wild of Pennsylvania said the ethics panel, which is evenly split between the two parties, voted at a lengthy closed-door meeting, and no Republican joined Democrats who wanted to release the report.

In 2023, the Republican firebrand known for his strong support of former President Donald Trump said that the Justice Department has ended a sex trafficking case with no charges against him.

misson holiday events

'Lighting of the Trees' event features in Mission holiday kickoff

7h ago

Bear attack

Black bear dies after attacking man, dog on Maple Ridge trail

9h ago

Christmas movies

Tourism Abbotsford shares list of popular spots holiday filmmakers are drawn to

10h ago

The conservative who represents much of the Florida Panhandle issued a statement through his congressional office in February 2023 that the long-running investigation was over. Gaetz had insisted throughout he was innocent of any wrongdoing.

“The Department of Justice has confirmed to Congressman Gaetz’s attorneys that their investigation has concluded and that he will not be charged with any crimes,” the statement said.

While he is a relatively junior member of Congress, Gaetz has gained national attention through his frequent cable news appearances in recent years in which he offered an unvarnished defense of Trump. The decision not to charge Gaetz removes a shadow that had threatened his political career.

Federal prosecutors were investigating whether Gaetz and political ally Joel Greenberg paid underage girls and escorts or offered them gifts in exchange for sex, according to two people familiar with the case who spoke on condition of anonymity during the ongoing investigation.

The Associated Press