Trump picks Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general

President-elect Donald Trump announced he will nominate Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida as U.S. Attorney General.

Gaetz, 42, has resigned from Congress, with the resignation taking effect upon floor announcement.

Trump praised Gaetz for his focus on reforming the Department of Justice. Gaetz, a vocal Trump loyalist, has faced past investigations, including a DOJ sex-trafficking probe, but was not charged.

His nomination is seen as Trump prioritizing loyalty in his administration.

Gaetz’s resignation came just before the House Ethics Committee was set to vote on releasing a report into allegations against him, CNBC has reported.

His nomination surprised many Republicans, including Sen. Susan Collins.

Written by B.C. Begley