Matt Gaetz withdraws from attorney general nomination over Senate opposition concerns

Former Congressman Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for U.S. attorney general after concerns that four Republican senators would block his nomination. Gaetz had been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump on November 13. Gaetz cited the potential distraction his confirmation could cause for the Trump administration as a reason for his withdrawal. He believed Senators Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and John Curtis opposed his nomination. Shortly after Gaetz's announcement, Trump nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi for the position. Trump acknowledged Gaetz's efforts but noted that his nomination had become a distraction.