Trump’s transition team will be hoping that Bondi’s nomination path will be less tumultuous than Gaetz’s.
Reacting to the announcement, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham predicted that Bondi “will be confirmed quickly,” calling her selection a “grand slam, touchdown, hole in one, ace, hat trick, slam dunk, Olympic gold medal pick.”
The news of Bondi’s nomination came about six hours after Gaetz said he would not seek the high-profile cabinet post, following days of debate over whether to release a congressional report on sexual misconduct allegations against him.
Announcing his withdrawal, the 41-year-old said the controversy over his potential nomination “was unfairly becoming a distraction” to the work of the incoming Trump administration.
The report included the findings of a probe sparked by allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. Gaetz has vehemently denied the claims but said that he hoped to avoid a “needlessly protracted Washington scuffle” by withdrawing.
Later on Thursday, Gaetz offered his congratulations to Bondi, calling her “a stellar selection by President Trump”.
“She’s a proven litigator, an inspiring leader and a champion for all Americans. She will bring the needed reforms to DOJ,” he said.
It is unclear if Gaetz, who resigned his House seat soon after Trump tapped him for attorney general, will now try to retain his seat.
Since his resounding election win earlier this month, Trump has named several close allies to fill high-ranking positions in his administration.