TV personality and former supporter of Trump, Geraldo Rivera, has publicly expressed his disapproval of President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of ex-Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for the position of attorney general. During a segment on NewsNation’s “On Balance with Leland Vittert,” Rivera stated, “When I heard that Matt Gaetz was picked to be attorney general, I threw up in my mouth.”
The 81-year-old Rivera, who proclaimed his endorsement for the Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, labeled Gaetz as a “horrible, creepy choice.” He expressed concern over Gaetz’s potential access to sensitive investigation files, especially those related to him, as attorney general.
In a separate conversation with NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo, Rivera further articulated his concerns, claiming, “This is blowing up Washington D.C. and the selection particularly of Matt Gaetz to run the Justice Department is the giant F-you to the critics.” He characterized Gaetz as “perennially under investigation,” “barely a lawyer,” and a “clearly incompetent person.”
Rivera’s criticism of Gaetz wasn’t confined to television appearances, but also extended to social media. He predicted that Gaetz’s confirmation by the Senate Republicans as attorney general was unlikely.
The nomination of Gaetz has elicited a variety of responses from political figures. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) exhibited a cautious approach, stating, “I’m predisposed to try to help presidents with their picks. But he’ll have to answer some tough questions in the hearing, and we’ll see how he does.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) expressed skepticism, stating, “I do not see him as a serious candidate.” She explained that while the president has the right to nominate whomever he wishes, the Senate’s role in the nomination process is to provide advice. She expressed doubt that her Senate colleagues would advise the appointment of Matt Gaetz.
Despite being a strong supporter of Trump, Gaetz has been plagued by previous investigations, including a federal probe into sex trafficking allegations, which concluded without any charges. His nomination is set to face strenuous scrutiny during the Senate confirmation process.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Gaetz’s nomination underscores the potential obstacles President-elect Trump could face in securing confirmations for his Cabinet choices. As the Senate gears up for the confirmation hearings, the reactions from both political parties will be closely watched.