As Matt Gaetz’s nomination for attorney general under President-elect Trump intensifies, pressure is mounting for the immediate release of a crucial ethics report examining serious allegations against him.
Senator John Cornyn, a key figure in the Senate Judiciary Committee, made it clear that he expects full access to the report from the House Ethics Committee, which investigates accusations of sexual misconduct and drug use involving the 42-year-old representative. Cornyn emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that no limitations should be placed on what the Senate considers regarding Gaetz’s confirmation.
“Absolutely, I want to see the ethics report,” Cornyn told reporters, underscoring his position as one of the most influential Republicans on the committee that will review Gaetz’s nomination. Other Republican senators, along with all 12 Democrats on the panel, are also calling for the report’s release to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of Gaetz’s candidacy.
Despite being under intense scrutiny, Gaetz remains defiant, having denied any wrongdoing related to the allegations. These include a three-year investigation by the Justice Department into sex trafficking claims, which ultimately did not lead to criminal charges.
A lawyer for one of the alleged victims is demanding that the report be made public immediately, calling attention to the severity of the case and the witnesses involved. Gaetz’s resignation from the House of Representatives, however, means the Ethics Committee’s investigation may soon conclude, potentially leading to the report’s release as early as this week.
While some Republicans rally behind Gaetz, others—particularly those who experienced his disruptive tactics, like leading an unsuccessful coup against House Speaker Kevin McCarthy—are raising concerns about his qualifications to lead the Justice Department. Gaetz’s long history of contentious actions within Congress and his lack of legal experience only fuel skepticism, with some, like Senator Kevin Cramer, predicting an uphill battle for his confirmation.
With Trump’s plans for reshaping the Justice Department at stake, the nomination faces significant challenges, leaving many lawmakers to question whether Gaetz is the right choice to enforce the law in an administration aiming for sweeping changes.
