President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General is drawing fierce opposition, not just from Democrats but also from within the Republican Party. Senate Republicans are signaling that Gaetz, a polarizing figure with a history of controversies, faces insurmountable odds for confirmation due to his past scandals and divisive reputation.
GOP Resistance Intensifies
Trump’s slim majority in the Senate leaves little room for defections, with no more than three GOP senators able to vote against Gaetz if all Democrats oppose the nomination. However, resistance to Gaetz’s nomination appears overwhelming. One insider familiar with the conversations among Senate Republicans reported that “significantly more than four” senators are prepared to oppose Gaetz, which would be enough to derail his chances.
“People are pissed,” the source said. Estimates from other sources suggest that Republican “no” votes could range from more than a dozen to over 30. “It won’t even be close,” another insider added, highlighting the widespread unease within the party.
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“It’s simply that Matt Gaetz has a very long, steep hill to get across the finish line,” said Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND). He questioned whether Trump should expend significant political capital on a nominee unlikely to succeed. Even staunch Trump ally Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) admitted the process would be “very difficult” and suggested Gaetz might voluntarily withdraw.
Ethics Scandals Loom Large
Much of the opposition stems from Gaetz’s controversial past, including allegations of sexual misconduct. Although the Justice Department ended its investigation into claims that Gaetz had inappropriate contact with a minor, his tenure in Congress was marred by scandals. A House Ethics Committee investigation into sexual misconduct and drug use allegations was cut short after Gaetz resigned, but senators are demanding access to the committee’s findings.
Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL), chair of the Judiciary Committee, urged the House Ethics Committee to release its report and supporting evidence. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), a Judiciary Committee member, emphasized the importance of transparency, saying senators need all relevant information to avoid surprises during the confirmation process.
Fallout at the Justice Department
Within the Justice Department, Gaetz’s nomination has sparked anxiety and uncertainty. Many career officials are reportedly updating their résumés, expecting a mass exodus if Gaetz is confirmed. Some view the pick as an intentional move to destabilize the department, potentially driving out experienced staff.
Trump’s Calculations Backfire
Trump reportedly nominated Gaetz after growing dissatisfied with other candidates, valuing Gaetz’s loyalty above all else. However, this decision has only exacerbated tensions among lawmakers. Gaetz’s reputation as a “bomb thrower” on Capitol Hill—particularly his role in ousting former Speaker Kevin McCarthy—has left him with few allies. Rep. Max Miller (R-OH) summed up the sentiment, saying, “He’s not a team player. The guy is reckless.”
A Doomed Nomination?
Despite Trump spokesperson Karoline Leavitt’s defense of Gaetz as “a man of integrity,” the nomination appears doomed. Republican senators are reportedly already considering ways to convince Trump to withdraw Gaetz’s name, with some openly doubting his ability even to clear the Judiciary Committee.
With resistance mounting on all sides, Gaetz’s nomination serves as a litmus test for Trump’s willingness to bend institutional norms for personal loyalty. Whether Trump presses forward or withdraws Gaetz’s nomination, the controversy underscores deep fractures within the Republican Party and raises questions about the future of Trump’s second-term agenda.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
