President-elect Donald Trump’s decision to nominate Matt Gaetz—a Florida congressman recently investigated by the FBI—as Attorney General has sent waves of shock and disbelief through the Justice Department.
The response from within the Justice Department was swift and intense. “OMG,” one senior official said, while another described the selection as “truly stunning,” and a third labeled it simply “insane.” Gaetz, a vocal Trump supporter, was previously the subject of a federal investigation into alleged sex trafficking, which concluded without charges. Known for his scathing criticism of both the DOJ and the FBI, Gaetz has called for the FBI to be defunded and dismantled, raising concerns about how he might lead the very agency he has attacked.
“What the f— is happening?!” exclaimed another senior official, who spoke anonymously, describing Gaetz’s nomination as “laughable” and emphasizing that such an appointment could not come at a more consequential time for the country.
One Justice Department employee admitted, “I’m struggling to find words,” while sarcastically commenting on Gaetz’s qualifications: “How many other prospective attorneys general have prior experience as the subject of a criminal investigation?” Another department veteran expressed disbelief, calling the nomination “absolutely unbelievable.”
Inside the Justice Department headquarters, the mood was subdued, with employees reflecting on the implications of Gaetz’s potential leadership. Concerns ran high, especially given that the department operates under post-Watergate norms intended to minimize political influence in criminal investigations.
Gaetz’s history of challenging the DOJ is extensive, particularly regarding the January 6 Capitol attack investigation, which led to over 1,500 arrests and more than 1,100 convictions. Gaetz has frequently spread conspiracy theories around the incident, including claims about antifa and allegations involving Ray Epps, a January 6 defendant falsely portrayed as a government agent.
Despite these controversies, Gaetz will still need formal Senate confirmation, which may prove difficult. While several Senate Republicans voiced their surprise over the nomination, they were careful not to immediately close the door on the possibility.
A former senior Justice Department official responded in disbelief, texting, “This cannot be real. Matt lacks any substance or understanding of how the department operates.” Another former official called Gaetz “the least qualified person ever nominated for a position in the Department of Justice.”
If confirmed, Gaetz would be responsible for critical decisions affecting national security and the rule of law, a prospect many within the department find troubling. The decision to nominate Gaetz highlights the unusual path Trump’s second term may take, stirring uncertainty in one of the nation’s most sensitive institutions.