Gaetz withdrawal raises scrutiny for Hegseth, Kennedy and Gabbard nominations

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz has withdrawn as President-elect Trump's nominee for attorney general amid allegations of sex trafficking. His exit may increase scrutiny on other controversial nominees, including Pete Hegseth, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard. Hegseth, Trump's pick for defense secretary, is facing sexual misconduct allegations from 2017. He has acknowledged a consensual encounter but insists he was cleared of wrongdoing. His nomination may now attract more media and Senate attention. Kennedy and Gabbard, nominated for health and human services and national intelligence, respectively, could also face increased scrutiny due to their past comments. Republican senators have indicated that they should address potential concerns before their nominations are considered.