Long list of controversies surrounding Trump appointee Matt Gaetz

Gaetz, 42, is widely considered one of the most polarizing figures in Congress after facing allegations of misconduct, including displaying explicit photos of women in the House of Representatives and an investigation into possible sex trafficking.

Former President Donald Trump sparked controversy by announcing his selection of Matt Gaetz as the next attorney general on Wednesday. Gaetz, 42, is widely considered one of the most polarizing figures in Congress after facing allegations of misconduct, including displaying explicit photos of women in the House of Representatives and an investigation into possible sex trafficking.

No vote against a bill against human trafficking

In 2017, early in his term as a congressman, Gaetz captured national attention by casting the only “no” vote on an anti-human trafficking bill. He later explained in a Facebook Live video from his home that he opposed the bill, the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act, because of concerns about the federal overreach. Gaetz claimed he supported the bill’s goal but feared it would increase government bureaucracy. Despite his explanation, the negative reaction to his voice resurfaced amid subsequent allegations of his involvement in a sex trafficking investigation.

Matt Gaetz invites a far-right provocateur

In 2018, Gaetz caused another stir by inviting Chuck Johnson, a far-right internet provocateur, to the State of the Union address. Johnson, who was banned from Twitter and faced accusations of promoting white nationalism and denying the Holocaust, was a controversial guest choice, especially since some Florida lawmakers had invited individuals directly affected by recent events. Gaetz reportedly justified the invitation by explaining that Johnson happened to be visiting his office that day. Johnson himself noted that he admired Gaetz’s daring.

Matt Gaetz controversial tweet

Gaetz’s high-profile defense of Trump continued in 2019, especially when he posted a controversial Twitter message directed at Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer, ahead of Cohen’s testimony before the House Oversight Committee. Gaetz’s tweet implied that Cohen’s wife and father-in-law may not have been aware of Cohen’s alleged infidelity, which many interpreted as a veiled threat. After much criticism, Gaetz deleted the tweet, claiming it was an attempt at “witness screening” rather than intimidation. Although investigated by the Florida Bar, he was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing.

In 2020, Gaetz revealed a personal connection that caught the audience off guard during a heated exchange with then-Rep. Cedric Richmond. When Richmond questioned Gaetz’s understanding of the issues facing black families, Gaetz revealed that he had an adopted Cuban son named Nestor. Gaetz posted about Nestor on Twitter, describing him as “my son,” although it later became clear that Nestor is the son of an ex-girlfriend and had lived with Gaetz on and off for several years.

Alleged sex trafficking charges

In 2021, The New York Times reported that Gaetz was being investigated by the Justice Department for alleged sex trafficking, including claims that he paid a 17-year-old girl to travel across state lines for sexual encounters. Gaetz denied the allegations and claimed he had never traveled with a minor. Although Gaetz was ultimately not charged, his reputation suffered. During the investigation, his friend Joel Greenberg, a former Florida tax collector, pleaded guilty to multiple sex-related charges. The Daily Beast reported on a confession letter from Greenberg, in which he claimed Gaetz paid him to arrange sexual encounters with women and a 17-year-old. Private Venmo transactions between Gaetz and Greenberg also emerged, adding to the public scrutiny.

Matt Gaetz shows nude photos and videos of women to colleagues

Additional controversy surrounded Gaetz’s behavior on the House floor, with a CNN report alleging that he showed nude photos and videos of women to colleagues and aides. Among the explicit content was a video of a naked woman wearing a hula hoop. CNN sources indicated that Gaetz’s behavior prompted Chairman Paul Ryan’s staff to address his behavior directly. Gaetz strongly denied these allegations and described the report as part of a coordinated extortion against him and his family.

Following his nomination as attorney general, House Speaker Mike Johnson informed reporters Wednesday evening that Gaetz would immediately resign from Congress, effectively ending the Ethics Commission’s investigation. News of Gaetz’s nomination reportedly caused an audible reaction of surprise among Republican House members meeting privately.