### Trump Names Gaetz as AG Choice Amid DOJ Turmoil

In a significant development for the Justice Department, former President Trump announced his intention to appoint Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. This comes in the wake of ongoing scrutiny and criticism the department has faced throughout Trump's presidency, especially as he faces four federal felony charges tied to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.

Trump shared the announcement on Truth Social, asserting Gaetz would work to "end Weaponized Government, protect our Borders, dismantle Criminal Organizations, and restore Americans' badly-shattered Faith and Confidence in the Justice Department." Gaetz's unwavering support for Trump and his frequent attacks on both the DOJ and FBI position him as a controversial choice to lead these powerful federal law enforcement agencies.

Gaetz himself has been under investigation by the Justice Department, specifically regarding potential sex trafficking allegations. However, the case concluded in 2023 without any charges against him. Post-investigation, Gaetz has been vocal in his calls to abolish the FBI, as seen in his speech at the 2023 Conservative Political Action Conference. There, he declared, "We either get this government back on our side or we defund, get rid of, abolish the FBI CDC, ATF," also referencing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Following the January 6 Capitol riot, Gaetz controversially promoted the unfounded claim that antifa, not Trump supporters, were behind the attack. His rhetoric has resonated with some of the rioters, including one who mentioned Gaetz's plan to challenge the Electoral College votes during a Turning Points USA summit in late 2020. Moreover, January 6 defendant Brandon Straka indicated frequent communication with Gaetz during a 2023 Twitter Space, coinciding with Gaetz's involvement in the House Speaker race.

Many career prosecutors in the DOJ and FBI agents, who have been anxiously awaiting Trump's pick for Attorney General, likely view Gaetz's appointment with apprehension. Gaetz's outspoken criticism of the DOJ and FBI underscores the tension his nomination brings. Trump allies have already been vocal in urging criminal investigations into special counsel Jack Smith and New York Attorney General Letitia James, setting the stage for further conflicts within the highest levels of federal law enforcement.