The nomination of Florida Republican Matt Gaetz as attorney general by President-elect Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the Department of Justice (DOJ), with many employees expressing deep concerns about the agency’s future and their own professional security. Gaetz, a staunch Trump ally and vocal critic of the DOJ, has a controversial background that includes being the subject of a federal sex trafficking investigation—though no charges were filed.
An Unexpected Choice
Trump’s decision to nominate Gaetz surprised many observers, as the position is traditionally filled by seasoned legal professionals. Names of respected attorneys and former DOJ officials had been circulating as potential contenders, but Gaetz’s selection underscores Trump’s prioritization of personal loyalty and his intent to disrupt the department that has investigated and indicted him in the past.
Gaetz, who graduated from law school in 2007, has spent the majority of his career as a lawmaker rather than practicing attorney. His nomination starkly contrasts with previous attorneys general like Merrick Garland, who brought decades of legal and judicial experience to the role. Career DOJ attorneys reportedly reacted with disbelief when the announcement was made, with many questioning Gaetz’s qualifications and intentions.
Concerns About Gaetz’s Agenda
Gaetz has been an outspoken critic of the DOJ, referring to it as “corrupt and highly political.” He has expressed a desire to target what he calls the “deep state” and has advocated for the abolition of agencies under the DOJ’s purview, such as the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Justice Department employees fear that Gaetz’s rhetoric signals a dramatic departure from the agency’s core mission. Some staff members have already begun exploring opportunities outside the department, worried about the potential erosion of its independence and professionalism.
“The department runs on career employees, people who are apolitical in their work,” said one DOJ attorney planning to leave. “If these people are so dismayed by the selection of the attorney general that they leave, who will carry out the department’s essential functions?”
Reactions Within and Beyond the DOJ
John Fishwick Jr., a former U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia, described Gaetz’s nomination as a deliberate effort by Trump to destabilize the DOJ. “I think he was picked to shake the whole thing and to throw a grenade into DOJ,” Fishwick said, adding that DOJ lawyers he has spoken with are deeply unsettled by the choice.
Others see potential for reform, arguing that the DOJ has faced bipartisan criticism over the years. A DOJ attorney, speaking anonymously, noted that a leadership shakeup could provide an opportunity to rebuild trust in the agency, though they acknowledged that Gaetz’s divisive background complicates such efforts.
A Controversial Past
Gaetz’s record has added to the unease surrounding his nomination. He was previously investigated by federal authorities for alleged involvement in a sex trafficking scheme, though the inquiry concluded without charges. Additionally, the House Ethics Committee had been examining allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and obstruction of government investigations before Gaetz’s resignation from Congress earlier this week.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has resisted calls to release the results of the ethics investigation, even as senators demand access to the findings to assess Gaetz’s suitability for the attorney general position. Gaetz, for his part, has denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated attempts to tarnish his reputation.
Senate Confirmation Uncertainty
Gaetz’s nomination faces an uphill battle in the Senate, where even some Republicans have voiced skepticism. While a few lawmakers have praised the choice, others have withheld public support, citing concerns about Gaetz’s lack of experience and controversial history. Trump has reportedly considered bypassing the traditional confirmation process by using a recess appointment, a move that could further inflame tensions.
A Department at a Crossroads
The DOJ has weathered several politically charged investigations in recent years, from inquiries into Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server to probes into potential ties between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia. Most recently, the department has overseen special counsel investigations into classified document handling by both Trump and President Joe Biden, resulting in federal indictments against Trump.
Gaetz’s appointment raises questions about the future direction of the DOJ. Trump has made no secret of his desire to see the department take aggressive action against his political adversaries, and some fear Gaetz will serve as a vehicle for those ambitions.
Chris Mattei, a former federal prosecutor, voiced concerns about the implications of Gaetz leading the DOJ. “There’s significant worry about having someone with his background and personal vendettas in such a critical role,” Mattei said.
As the department braces for potential upheaval, employees and legal experts alike are left grappling with the implications of Gaetz’s leadership on the DOJ’s integrity and mission.