Rep. Matt Gaetz resigned from Congress to become the next Attorney General after President-elect Donald Trump's nomination.
Breitbart reported that Gaetz has formally resigned from his position in the U.S. House of Representatives, following a significant career move underpinned by his nomination to the role of Attorney General by President-elect Donald Trump.
This sudden departure has triggered the immediate requirement for a special election to fill his now vacant seat.
The resignation was announced by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and took effect immediately.
The announcement made by Speaker Johnson not only confirmed Gaetz's resignation but also set the political gears in motion in Florida's congressional district.
According to state law, a special election must be held within an eight-week timeframe to find his replacement. This timeline hints at a possible alignment with the congressional oath-taking ceremony scheduled for January 3, a crucial date as the new session of Congress begins.
Johnson expressed optimism about the timing of the special election. He highlighted the possibility of having a new representative in place by the time the newly elected Congress is sworn in, which could ensure Florida's representation is uninterrupted.
The nomination of Matt Gaetz by President-elect Trump on Wednesday afternoon was not without its indications of the future direction Trump envisages for the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The President-elect praised Gaetz's record and stance against what he termed the "Weaponization" of the justice system. Trump expressed his confidence that Gaetz would work to end government overreach and restore public trust in the DOJ.
"Few issues in America are more important than ending the partisan weaponization of our Justice System," Trump stated, elucidating his reasons for choosing Gaetz, whom he believes will protect America's borders, dismantle criminal organizations, and rebuild faith in the justice system.
While Trump's nomination is a crucial step, it marks the beginning of a more challenging process for Gaetz, as his appointment needs to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
This procedure will likely spotlight Gaetz's legislative history and his controversial actions, such as his pivotal role in removing then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his position in 2023.
During his time in Congress, particularly on the House Judiciary Committee, which oversees the DOJ, Gaetz was instrumental in what Trump referred to as thwarting the "Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax" and exposing government corruption.
These actions, Trump noted, showcased Gaetz's capabilities to lead and reform at the highest levels of federal law enforcement.
Speaker Johnson also commented on Gaetz's qualifications, describing him as a reformer "in his mind and heart." He emphasized the positive changes he anticipates Gaetz will bring to the Attorney General's office, reinforcing the sentiments expressed by Trump regarding Gaetz’s potential to effect meaningful reform within the DOJ.
As the process unfolds, all eyes will be on the U.S. Senate's response to this nomination and the subsequent special election in Florida.
The outcomes will significantly affect not only the future of Gaetz's political career but also the broader national legal landscape.