### Trump Nominates Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, Sparking Mixed Reactions

In a surprising announcement, President-elect Donald Trump has selected Representative Matt Gaetz as his nominee for attorney general. If confirmed by the Senate, this decision will place one of Trump's most fervent supporters at the helm of the Justice Department.

Trump announced his pick on social media, praising Gaetz as a "deeply gifted and tenacious attorney," trained at the William & Mary College of Law. He highlighted Gaetz's efforts in Congress, particularly his focus on reform within the Department of Justice.

The selection of Gaetz is noteworthy given his recent history with the Justice Department. The Florida congressman was the subject of a lengthy investigation related to allegations of sex trafficking and obstruction of justice. However, in 2023, the Justice Department concluded its investigation without bringing any charges against Gaetz, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Gaetz has been a Congressman since 2017, emerging as a prominent figure during the MAGA wave that ushered Trump into the White House. Over time, he has built a reputation as one of Trump's staunchest defenders and confidants, frequently visiting Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence and offering input on administrative selections.

Interestingly, Gaetz shares a close relationship with Susie Wiles, Trump's newly appointed chief of staff who has significant influence in Florida politics. This connection further strengthens Gaetz's position within Trump's inner circle.

Despite the Justice Department's decision not to charge Gaetz, he remains under scrutiny from the House Ethics Committee, which is probing similar allegations. Gaetz has publicly stated his refusal to continue participating in the ethics probe, which will cease if he leaves Congress for the attorney general role, according to House Ethics Committee Chairman Michael Guest.

Trump's announcement took House Republicans by surprise, with an audible gasp reported during their closed-door meeting. The reaction to Gaetz's nomination has been mixed, with some expressing support and others, like Republican Rep. Max Miller, dismissing it as a futile gesture. Miller described the nomination as "silly" and asserted that Gaetz would "never get confirmed by the Senate."

As the nomination process unfolds, all eyes will be on Gaetz and the Senate's response to this bold and controversial selection by President-elect Trump.