Senate Republicans, including some in leadership positions, privately express doubt about confirming former Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general. Sources indicate that there are not enough votes in the Senate to confirm Gaetz, with estimates ranging from 15 to 30 Republicans considering him unqualified. Despite this, President-elect Donald Trump’s team remains confident in Gaetz’s eventual confirmation. Gaetz and Trump attorney Todd Blanche are working to fill out the Justice Department, with Blanche set to oversee U.S. attorney’s offices if confirmed in the No. 2 position.
Many Republicans were shocked by Trump’s announcement of Gaetz as his pick for attorney general, considering Gaetz’s controversial past involving allegations of sex trafficking. A House Ethics Committee report investigating Gaetz has been postponed from release, impacting the confirmation process. Several Republicans believe Gaetz faces challenges in being confirmed, while others caution against a recess appointment to bypass the Senate. Gaetz’s confirmation would require support from a majority in the Senate, with Vice President-elect JD Vance potentially breaking a tie.
Trump’s call for Senate Republican leaders to allow recess appointments for quick Cabinet confirmations has raised concerns about potential ethical implications if faced with opposition. While the confirmation of Gaetz remains uncertain, the Republican Party is divided on whether to support his appointment as attorney general.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
