Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi Has been sworn in as US Attorney General.
She was confirmed by a 54-46 vote last night. Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman was the lone Democrat to cross the aisle and vote for Bondi,
Bondi’s nomination earned praise both from Republicans and some Democrats in the chamber for her composure and her ability to deftly navigate thorny and politically tricky topics and lines of questioning from some would-be detractors.
You can watch the swearing in here:
The news just broke that former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz has withdrawn from the nomination to be Attorney General. Gaetz announced the withdrawal in a post on Twitter.
https://twitter.com/mattgaetz/status/1859649045553402285
The post reads:
I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback – and the incredible support of so many. 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. 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. Trump’s DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1.
I remain fully committed to see that Donald J. Trump is the most successful President in history. I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice and I’m certain he will Save America.
The withdrawal comes amid a backdrop of looming House ethics reports and allegations of drug use and sex with minors.
President Trump issued this statement on Truth social:
https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113522181118234752
I greatly appreciate the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General. He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect. Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!
It is being reported that Gaetz may be seated in the 119th Congress when it is seated in January.