Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal from consideration as the next attorney general highlights the challenges President-elect Donald Trump may face in converting his “retribution” campaign into a governing coalition in Washington. Gaetz, a former Florida congressman and staunch Trump supporter, faced multiple roadblocks, including past investigations and allegations of sexual misconduct. This hasty retreat exemplifies the unconventional approach of Trump and his team, who failed to properly vet Gaetz before announcing his nomination. Senate Republicans, including Mitch McConnell and Susan Collins, were planning to vote against Gaetz, highlighting the Senate’s resistance to his nomination. This incident reflects Trump’s tendency to pick fights with the Senate, as seen with other controversial picks like Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard. Gaetz’s withdrawal is significant as new presidents rarely lose picks for Cabinet posts, with the last instance being in 1989 during George H.W. Bush’s presidency. Trump must be more strategic in nominating individuals who can win Senate confirmation to avoid repeating his predecessors’ Cabinet failures. Amid other top stories, including a battle for JD Vance’s Ohio Senate seat and the Senate’s rejection of Bernie Sanders’ efforts regarding weapon sales to Israel, the Trump transition continues to face obstacles as it prepares to take office in January.
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Trump’s Cabinet picks facing early challenges: From our Politics team
