Former Rep. Matt Gaetz’s political future has been uncertain since his resignation from the House and withdrawal from consideration as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general. While he was re-elected in November to represent his Florida district in the upcoming session of Congress, questions remain about whether he could return. Gaetz cannot rejoin the current Congress but could potentially be sworn in for the 119th Congress, which begins on January 3. However, he stated in his resignation letter that he does not intend to take the oath for the same office in the 119th Congress.
The possibility of a special election to fill Gaetz’s seat quickly has been discussed, as he won re-election earlier this month. If Gaetz does return to Congress, the Ethics Committee investigation into his conduct could be extended and a report released. However, if he does not return, Ethics Committee Chair Michael Guest has stated that the committee’s involvement in any matters involving Gaetz should end. Despite this, Rep. Sean Casten is pushing for a vote on the House floor to compel the committee to release its report. House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated that this issue will be addressed after Thanksgiving. The outcome of these developments will shape Gaetz’s future in politics and the ongoing investigation into his conduct.
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