**Matt Gaetz Withdraws from Consideration for Attorney General Role in Trump's Administration**

In a surprising move, former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz has announced that he is stepping down from being considered for the role of U.S. attorney general in President-elect Donald Trump's administration. Gaetz cited that his confirmation had become an unnecessary distraction to the transition efforts led by Trump and his team.

In a statement shared on his social media account, Gaetz expressed his gratitude for the support he had received and acknowledged the productive meetings he had with various senators. Despite the positive momentum, Gaetz acknowledged that his confirmation process had evolved into a distraction. "There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General," he said.

The decision arrives amidst the resurgence of past allegations against Gaetz. Although a Department of Justice investigation concluded last year without charges concerning allegations of sex trafficking a minor, a House Ethics Committee probe into claims of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and other improprieties was recently reignited. Gaetz has consistently denied any sexual encounters with underage individuals.

The announcement of Gaetz's withdrawal followed closely after CNN contacted him regarding a report involving a witness's testimony to the ethics panel. The witness claimed to have had two sexual encounters with Gaetz in 2017, at a time when she was 17 years old.

The House Ethics Committee remains in a deadlock over releasing a report on its investigation, with plans to reconvene on December 5 to consider the matter further. In response to Gaetz's withdrawal, President-elect Trump expressed support for Gaetz, recognizing his potential but acknowledging his decision to avoid being a disruption.

Trump’s transition team also emphasized the administration's ongoing commitment to appointing a strong leader for the Department of Justice who can uphold constitutional values. The team assured that a new decision regarding the attorney general nomination would be announced in due time.

This development marks a notable turn in the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to fill key roles as they prepare to take office.