### Matt Gaetz Declines Return to Congress Amid Ongoing Ethical Scrutiny

In a surprising turn of events, Matt Gaetz announced that he will not be seeking a return to his seat in the US House of Representatives. Speaking to conservative radio host Charlie Kirk, Gaetz emphasized he would remain active in politics, but "from a new perch."

Gaetz, a fervent supporter of Donald Trump and a prominent figure within the hard-right faction of the House, had previously resigned his congressional seat upon being chosen by Trump to head the Department of Justice. However, after eight days of intense examination and growing doubts about his ability to navigate the Senate’s confirmation process, Gaetz withdrew his nomination.

Despite having recently secured re-election in his Florida district, Gaetz opted against reclaiming his seat in the House when the new Congress assembles in January. He expressed optimism about the future of his district, praising the worthy candidates who have stepped forward to fill his role.

“I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress,” Gaetz remarked, highlighting his belief in fresh leadership for northwest Florida.

The decision comes amid continuous ethical and legal challenges faced by Gaetz. Allegations against him include human trafficking, illegal drug use, and paying for sex with a minor. Although Gaetz denies the allegations and was not criminally charged after a Department of Justice investigation, a separate House ethics investigation was ongoing until his resignation.

The House ethics committee recently deadlocked on whether to release its findings on Gaetz, and traditionally, such investigations are discontinued if a congressperson resigns or is not re-elected.

Recent reports from US media alleged that Gaetz utilized the Venmo app to make payments to women, purportedly in exchange for sex. Gaetz dismissed these claims, arguing that if they were true, he would be facing indictment and imprisonment.

Following Gaetz's withdrawal, Trump has announced his intention to nominate former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as the new head of the Department of Justice. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has outlined the timeline for a special election to fill Gaetz’s vacancy in the 1st district, where he had recently secured two-thirds of the vote.

The race to replace Gaetz has already attracted at least six Republican candidates and one Democrat, signaling a contentious battle ahead. As Trump forms his administration, he continues to choose controversial figures, including nominating RFK to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.