Donald Trump’s decision to nominate under fire Republican congressman Matt Gaetz as attorney general has sent shockwaves through Washington, including the president-elect’s own party.
Gaetz was nominated on Wednesday as the President-elect’s choice to be the nation’s chief law enforcement officer in the justice department, a role that directs the government’s legal positions on critical issues, including abortion, civil rights, and first amendment cases.
“I don’t think it’s a serious nomination for the attorney general,” Republican senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, told NBC News. “We need to have a serious attorney general. And I’m looking forward to the opportunity to consider somebody that is serious. This one was not on my bingo card.”
The Florida Congressman has been facing probes over allegations of serial misconduct. Even when more facts have emerged following the announcement, Gaetz has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
