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JUST IN: Two Candidates ‘Floated’ As Replacement For Gaetz After Stunning Withdrawal

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In a surprise move Thursday, Rep.-elect Matt Gaetz (R-FL) announced his withdrawal from consideration for Attorney General in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Gaetz, a vocal Trump ally and a key figure in the MAGA movement, cited concerns over becoming a “distraction” during a critical period for the Trump-Vance transition team.

“While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz wrote on social media. “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.”

The announcement came less than two weeks after Gaetz resigned from Congress to focus on his potential appointment to lead the Department of Justice. His nomination had faced significant scrutiny, particularly over ongoing ethics controversies, and would likely have resulted in a contentious confirmation battle. Gaetz’s withdrawal has left a high-profile vacancy in the Trump administration’s cabinet picks.

Shelby Talcott of Semafor News reported that two names have emerged as potential replacements: Todd Blanche, who is currently slated to serve as Deputy Attorney General, and Andrew Bailey, a figure initially considered for the Attorney General role.

Todd Blanche

Todd Blanche

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Blanche, a former federal prosecutor and experienced white-collar defense attorney, has a background in handling high-profile cases, including representing Paul Manafort and Donald Trump in legal battles. He recently left private practice to join Trump’s defense team. Known for his legal acumen, Blanche is seen as a steady choice for a leadership role in the Department of Justice.

Andrew Bailey is currently Missouri’s Attorney General. He is a combat veteran and staunch conservative with a track record of defending Trump and challenging progressive policies. Appointed in 2023, he has led efforts against abortion access and gender-affirming care. Bailey’s political alignment and legal expertise make him a natural fit for consideration as Attorney General in the Trump administration.

Gaetz’s nomination sparked backlash from both sides of the aisle. Allegations of past misconduct, including findings from a House Ethics Committee investigation, cast a shadow over his qualifications for the top law enforcement role. The committee reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting Gaetz had used payment platforms such as Venmo and PayPal to transfer over $10,000 to two women for sexual activities. One of the women reportedly claimed that Gaetz engaged in sexual conduct with a 17-year-old girl in 2017, though Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has not been charged with a crime.

The House Ethics Committee voted along party lines on Wednesday on whether to publicly disclose its findings, with Democrats in favor and Republicans opposed. The prospect of these allegations dominating his confirmation hearings may have contributed to Gaetz’s decision to step aside.

Both candidates are seen as less controversial alternatives to Gaetz and may face smoother paths to confirmation. Blanche, a veteran lawyer with experience in corporate and criminal defense, has been a trusted member of Trump’s legal team. Bailey, a state-level attorney general, carries conservative bona fides that could appeal to Trump’s base.

While Gaetz has pledged to remain an ardent supporter of Trump’s agenda, his departure from the confirmation process signals a shift toward nominees who may face fewer obstacles in securing key positions. As the Trump-Vance administration prepares to assume office in January, attention now turns to the president-elect’s ability to assemble a cohesive cabinet amid mounting political and legal battles.

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