Matt Gaetz Taps Out of Congress for Trump AG Gig
GOP representative steps down to join Trump's legal team
By: Sarah Carter
Matt Gaetz has announced his resignation from Congress, effective immediately. The Florida Republican is set to join former President Donald Trump's legal team as the attorney general.
Gaetz, who has been under investigation for sex trafficking allegations, has been a vocal supporter of Trump and has repeatedly defended him against impeachment and other legal challenges.
In a statement, Gaetz said he was "honored" to be asked to join Trump's legal team. "I believe that President Trump is innocent of the charges against him, and I look forward to helping him clear his name," Gaetz said.
Trump, in a statement, praised Gaetz as a "fighter" and said he was "confident that he will be a valuable asset to our team."
The news of Gaetz's resignation comes as Trump faces a number of legal challenges, including a criminal investigation by the Fulton County District Attorney into his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Georgia.
Gaetz's departure from Congress is a significant blow to the Republican Party, which is already facing an uphill battle in the upcoming midterm elections. Gaetz was a popular figure among the party's base, and his resignation is likely to further energize Trump's supporters.
It is unclear who will replace Gaetz in Congress. The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, will appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Gaetz's term, which ends in January 2023.