Special Poll
Rep. Matt Gaetz announced his resignation from Congress just before the House Ethics Committee was set to hold an important meeting on its investigation into him, as Axios has learned. Gaetz’s departure, coming shortly after President-elect Trump nominated him for attorney general, effectively brings an end to the committee’s extensive probe.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stated that Gaetz’s intention was to allow for a quicker process to fill his seat, as Trump’s selection of several House members for administration roles has raised concerns among Republicans about maintaining their narrow majority. Gaetz’s confirmation in the Senate may face challenges, as many Republicans expressed shock and disapproval following the announcement of his nomination.
The Ethics Committee was scheduled to meet later this week to discuss its investigation into Gaetz, according to two sources familiar with the situation. This meeting could have led to the release of a report on Gaetz by Friday. The committee had been investigating allegations against Gaetz, including sex trafficking, drug use, and accepting bribes, all of which he has firmly denied. Gaetz’s unexpected resignation has sparked speculation on Capitol Hill about whether the report will still be released.
Speaker Johnson noted that Gaetz’s resignation letter took effect immediately, likely out of respect for his colleagues. Johnson explained that Gaetz’s intention was to trigger the required eight-week process to fill his seat in Florida. Johnson has already contacted Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to initiate the process, with hopes of filling the seat as early as Jan. 3.
Johnson shared that Trump informed him of the nomination during a GOP Conference meeting, and Johnson spoke with Gaetz immediately afterward. Reflecting on Gaetz’s time in Congress, Johnson described him as “one of the most intelligent members” and an “accomplished attorney,” expressing confidence that Gaetz would bring valuable expertise to his new role.
While Johnson supports the nomination, other Republicans, including several of Gaetz’s House colleagues and senators who would vote on his confirmation, have strongly criticized the choice. Johnson acknowledged that Gaetz’s resignation halts the Ethics Committee’s investigation, as the panel no longer has authority over former members of Congress.