Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) urged fellow Republicans to support Donald Trump's selection of Matt Gaetz as attorney general, following his initial skepticism regarding the controversial choice.
Appearing on Fox News’ Hannity on Wednesday, Graham appealed to GOP members: “To every Republican, give Matt a chance.” His statement comes amid increasing dissent within Republican ranks over Trump’s unexpected appointment. Several GOP senators have openly expressed their displeasure, with some dismissing it as a less-than-serious decision.
Graham emphasized to Sean Hannity, “To my Democratic friends, elections have consequences whether you like it or not. You accuse Matt of the same actions that were taken on your side. Matt Gaetz didn’t lie under oath, nor did he sign FISA warrants based on Russian misinformation. We’re giving the president the chance to select his team.”
Earlier on Wednesday, Graham’s stance was less definitive. When asked by CNN’s Manu Raju about Gaetz's nomination as Trump assembled his Cabinet following his 2024 election victory, Graham responded, “I don’t know yet; I’ll have to think about it.” When pressed further on his concerns about Gaetz, he added, “We’ll see.”
Moderate Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski didn’t hide their reservations. “I don’t think it’s a serious nomination for attorney general,” said Murkowski. “We need a serious nominee, and I look forward to considering someone qualified. This was not what I expected.”
Senator Collins echoed her dismay, expressing outright opposition to Gaetz’s appointment. “If the nomination proceeds, I expect a rigorous FBI background check, public hearings, and thorough questioning,” she said.
Meanwhile, Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma told CNN, “I trust President Trump’s judgment here, but Gaetz needs to present himself before Congress. There will be many questions, and he needs to answer them satisfactorily.”
Following Trump’s announcement, Gaetz resigned from the House, where he had been under investigation by the Ethics Committee for allegations of sexual misconduct, drug use, obstruction, and more. With his resignation, the probe will likely be dropped, as it applies only to current members.
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