Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) signaled that he would confirm Donald Trump's controversial nominee Matt Gaetz as attorney general.
The Florida Republican has no prosecutorial or law enforcement experience and has been investigated by the Justice Department and House Ethics Committee for alleged teen sex trafficking, but Graham said he's open to confirming the combative former congressman as the top federal law enforcement officer.
"I had a very good meeting with President Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, Matt Gaetz, and Vice President-elect JD Vance," Graham tweeted. "I am committed to allowing the process to go forward in a manner consistent with past practices and fundamental fairness. This process will not be a rubber stamp nor will it be driven by a lynch mob."
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The House Ethics Committee is expected to vote Wednesday on whether to release its findings in an investigation into Gaetz's alleged sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, misuse of campaign funds, accepting bribes and other accusations after the Justice Department closed its own probe without filing charges, but Graham said those claims would not influence his vote.
"My record is clear," the senator said. "I tend to defer to presidential cabinet choices unless the evidence suggests disqualification. I fear the process surrounding the Gaetz nomination is turning into an angry mob, and unverified allegations are being treated as if they are true."
"I have seen this movie before," Graham said, perhaps alluding to sexual assault allegations against U.S. Supreme Court justice Brett Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearings. "I would urge all of my Senate colleagues, particularly Republicans, not to join the lynch mob and give the process a chance to move forward. After years of being investigated by the Department of Justice, no charges were brought against Matt Gaetz. This is something we should all remember. I would also urge my colleagues to go back to a time-tested process, receive relevant information, and give the nominee a chance to make their case as to why they should be confirmed. This standard – which I have long adhered to – has served the Senate and country well."