### Matt Gaetz Announces Decision to Exit Congress Amidst Controversy

WASHINGTON – Former Representative Matt Gaetz has declared that he will not seek to return to Congress, opting instead to pursue new ventures after 14 years in elected office. This announcement comes after Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration for the role of President-elect Donald Trump's attorney general amidst allegations of sexual misconduct.

Gaetz shared his decision during an interview with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, stating, "I'm still going to be in the fight, but it's going to be from a new perch. I do not intend to join the 119th Congress." He expressed enthusiasm for the new candidates, particularly from Florida, who are vying for his seat, adding, "I'm actually excited to see Northwest Florida go to new heights and have great representation."

Reflecting on his political career, Gaetz explained that he was first elected to Florida's state House at the age of 26 and is now 42. Gaetz conveyed his desire to focus on personal goals and family, while also supporting President Trump in whatever capacity needed. "I'm going to be fighting for President Trump," he said. "Eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress."

The Florida Republican stepped down from his congressional seat last week after Trump's nomination to serve as attorney general. His resignation precludes any possibility of returning to the current Congress. His pending nomination was undermined by the sexual misconduct allegations, which Gaetz firmly denies, labeling them as false and an effort to smear his reputation.

"If the things that the House Ethics report said were true, I would be under indictment and probably in a prison cell," Gaetz argued. "But of course, they're false, because when you test them against other records, when you test them against other testimony, it all falls apart very quickly."

Gaetz's tenure in the U.S. House began in 2017, and he has been a polarizing figure, partly due to his instrumental role in the ousting of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as House speaker. As he departs, Gaetz's focus shifts from legislative duties to other aspirations, eagerly anticipating the new leadership that will represent his district.