Former Rep. Matt Gaetz's resignation was officially announced on the floor of the House during the opening of legislative business at 12:02 p.m. ET on Thursday. Gaetz's resignation is effective immediately, and he has stated that he will not be taking the oath of office in the upcoming Congress in January.
The House clerk read Gaetz's letter of resignation, which outlined his decision to step down as the United States representative for Florida's 1st Congressional District. In the letter, Gaetz expressed his intention to pursue the position of attorney general in the Trump administration.
Following the reading of the letter, the chair announced Gaetz's resignation to the House, informing members that the total number of representatives is now 433.
The letter addressed to the Speaker of the House stated, 'I hereby resign as a United States representative for Florida’s 1st Congressional District, effective immediately. And I do not intend to take the oath of office for the same office in the 119th Congress to pursue the position of attorney general in the Trump administration.'
Gaetz's decision to resign and pursue a role in the Trump administration marks a significant development in his political career. The announcement has garnered attention and speculation about the future implications for both Gaetz and the vacant congressional seat.
