### Controversy Surrounds Trump's Nominee for US Attorney General: Matt Gaetz

The debate over Donald Trump's decision to nominate Matt Gaetz, the former Florida congressman dogged by allegations of sexual misconduct, for US attorney general intensified on Sunday. Republican senator Markwayne Mullin has called for an unreleased ethics report on Gaetz to be accessible to the Senate, given its role in overseeing the confirmation hearings. Mullin conveyed his concerns during an appearance on NBC's Meet the Press, although he refrained from advocating for a public release of the report.

Gaetz stepped down from his congressional seat last Wednesday, shortly after the president-elect made his contentious pick, disrupting a congressional ethics panel's plans to release their review of various claims against him, including sexual misconduct and illegal drug use. Gaetz has consistently refuted any accusations of wrongdoing. On the other hand, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson reiterated his stance that the ethics survey should remain confidential, emphasizing that the ethics committee’s jurisdiction does not extend to non-members of the House.

Mike Johnson, speaking to CNN, highlighted that historically, there have only been two exceptions to this rule. He acknowledged that while he lacks the authority to prevent the report's release, he was wary of setting a new precedent. Trump's appointment of Gaetz has not only sparked outrage among Democrats but also poses a challenge to Republican lawmakers under Trump's influence. Senator Mullin has previously criticized Gaetz, pointing to instances where Gaetz allegedly displayed nude photographs of his sexual exploits to colleagues, describing him as lacking principles.

Despite his criticisms, Mullin has not yet decided whether to support Gaetz's confirmation. He stated his intention to approach Gaetz's confirmation vote with an open mind, pledging to give him a fair chance like any other nominee. Senior Republican senators, including Susan Collins, John Cornyn, and Thom Tillis, have also expressed that the ethics report should be made available for their review.

In contrast, Democratic senator John Fetterman advised his colleagues to avoid overreacting to Trump’s actions, suggesting that Republicans have the upper hand for the next two years. Fetterman, who recently secured re-election in Pennsylvania, emphasized the importance of scrutinizing Trump’s nominations while cautioning against getting caught up in outrage over every decision or tweet.

Meanwhile, Democratic senator-elect Adam Schiff voiced strong opposition to Gaetz's nomination, arguing that Gaetz is fundamentally unqualified for the role of attorney general. Schiff pointed to the serious allegations against Gaetz—including child sex-trafficking, drug use, and obstruction of an investigation—and highlighted his lack of experience in the justice department as disqualifying factors.