Matt Gaetz sparked an uproar within MAGA circles on Thursday when he announced he was withdrawing his name from President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet, citing concerns that allegations against him could distract from Trump’s administration. The news sent Trump loyalists into a frenzy, with many blaming the political establishment for forcing Gaetz out.
“Super disappointed Matt Gaetz was forced by the elites to drop out,” influencer Matt Wallace posted. “They probably threatened his life because most of them have done crimes so graphic I can’t even describe them here. They can’t have someone like Matt investigating them.”
Others shared similar sentiments, framing Gaetz’s withdrawal as part of a broader effort to suppress Trump’s agenda. “The Establishment isn’t afraid of Trump’s nominations being unqualified,” MAGA commentator Don Wick declared via meme. “The Establishment is afraid of being dismantled by them.”
Gaetz’s decision comes amid mounting outrage over Trump nominating a figure embroiled in scandal to lead the Justice Department. Gaetz faces accusations of sexual misconduct involving a minor, paying for sex, using drugs, accepting bribes, and misusing campaign funds. While critics like former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) called his withdrawal a relief—mocking Gaetz as “Bond villain #1″—Trump’s supporters took a far different view.
“We didn’t win in a landslide to allow a handful of elitist Senators get in our way,” urged MAGA commentator Joseph Pino. “Full steam ahead.” Among Gaetz’s defenders, failed MAGA candidate Valentina Gomez, known for her controversial stunts like book burnings and inflammatory comments, encouraged him to pivot to a Florida Senate run.
“Come hell or high water, I have your back Matt,” she wrote. “Florida needs a man built for the battle in the Senate. That person is you.” Gaetz’s allies expressed disappointment over his withdrawal. “As a friend, it kills me to hear this,” said Rumble pundit Kevin Smith. “As Americans, we as a nation will miss out on your leadership at the DOJ.”
Influencer Paul A. Szypula echoed the sentiment, writing, “Gaetz would’ve been an amazing AG. He’s 100% MAGA.” Kylie Jane Kremer, Executive Director of Women for America First, reflected the anger felt by many Trump loyalists. “WTF?! We want YOU, Matt Gaetz, to lead the DOJ! We gave DJT a mandate and he chose you!” The backlash highlights ongoing divisions between Trump’s base and the broader political establishment as his administration prepares to take power.