If Rep. Matt Gaetz becomes attorney general, he would have access to investigative files containing evidence from the FBI's sex trafficking investigation against him. The Justice Department has deemed these files too sensitive to release to congressional investigators, citing the protection of young women who were witnesses.
House Ethics Chairman Michael Guest stated that the ethics probe into allegations of sexual misconduct, drug use, and improper gifts involving Gaetz would end if he resigns from Congress to assume the role of attorney general.
The criminal investigation into Gaetz began during the Trump administration. Despite the Justice Department's decision not to press criminal charges under President Joe Biden, Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
During the final days of the Trump administration, Gaetz reportedly sought a preemptive pardon for himself, although the White House did not seriously consider his request. Gaetz has refuted claims that he ever pursued a pardon.
Known for his criticism of the Justice Department, Gaetz has been vocal about his disapproval of the prosecutions of Trump and January 6 rioters. On the anniversary of the Capitol attack, he controversially stated that the event was not an insurrection.
