From Sex Trafficking Probe to AG Nominee: Matt Gaetz's DOJ Investigation History Raises Confirmation Concerns

Rep. Matt Gaetz's nomination as Attorney General brings renewed scrutiny to his past entanglements with the Department of Justice, including a federal sex trafficking investigation and ongoing House ethics probe that ended abruptly with his resignation Wednesday.

The federal investigation, initiated under Trump's first term, centered on allegations that Gaetz and former political ally Joel Greenberg participated in paying underage girls and escorts for sex. While Gaetz faced no charges, Greenberg pleaded guilty in 2021 to sex trafficking and received an 11-year prison sentence.

Federal investigators examined multiple angles, including a Bahamas trip where Gaetz allegedly traveled with women and a campaign donor. The probe looked into whether women received payment or gifts for sex, and if Gaetz's associates attempted to secure government jobs for some women. Investigators also scrutinized Gaetz's connections to medical marijuana legislation.

The House Ethics Committee had been investigating related allegations since April 2021. The committee's scope expanded to include potential sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, improper gifts, and obstruction of investigations. As Rep. Michael Guest noted, "Gaetz's nomination did not change the panel's ongoing probe." However, Gaetz's timely resignation effectively terminated the investigation before its anticipated Friday report release.

"It's unlikely Gaetz would be confirmed in time to oversee special counsel Jack Smith," said Republican Rep. Mike Simpson of Idaho, expressing doubts about the confirmation process. Sen. Lisa Murkowski was more direct, stating she "didn't believe Gaetz was a serious candidate."

Despite these concerns, some House allies defended the nomination. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna argued that while many will try to "smear him," "the evidence will speak for itself." Trump's statement emphasized Gaetz would target "systemic corruption" at the Justice Department.

In his own defense, Gaetz has "vehemently denied any wrongdoing" and stated last year that the Justice Department's investigation concluded without federal charges. Hours before his nomination, he called for a "full court press against this WEAPONIZED government."

The timing of Gaetz's resignation appears strategic, coming just before the Ethics Committee's expected report release. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged this timing would allow Florida to fill the seat by January 3rd, when Republicans will hold a slim majority.

The convergence of these investigations with Gaetz's nomination highlights the unprecedented nature of selecting someone previously investigated by the department they're chosen to lead. Senate Republicans, including John Cornyn, remain noncommittal about confirmation prospects, stating simply, "We'll find out, won't we."