Key Points
- Matt Gaetz’s nomination as US Attorney General comes with his immediate resignation from Congress, ending an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation into alleged misconduct dating back to 2021.
- As a crypto advocate who previously introduced legislation for Bitcoin tax payments, Gaetz’s nomination suggests a potential shift toward more crypto-friendly policies within the Department of Justice.
Presidential Nomination and Congressional Exit
Trump announced Matt Gaetz as his nominee for Attorney General on November 13, prompting Gaetz’s immediate resignation from his position as Representative of Florida’s 1st Congressional District. Trump praised Gaetz’s dedication to “desperately needed reform at the Department of Justice” in a post on X. The nomination effectively ends a House Ethics Committee investigation into Gaetz that had been ongoing since 2021, focusing on allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use.
Crypto Advocacy Background
During his congressional tenure, Gaetz established himself as a pro-cryptocurrency legislator. He notably introduced legislation requiring the Internal Revenue Service to accept Bitcoin for federal income tax payments, inspired by his visit to El Salvador during President Nayib Bukele’s inauguration. His support extended to backing the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century (FIT21) Act, demonstrating his commitment to integrating digital assets into mainstream financial systems.
Legislative Reform Initiatives
Beyond his crypto advocacy, Gaetz has been active in broader financial reform efforts. He co-sponsored the Bipartisan Restoring Faith in Government Act alongside Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Brian Fitzpatrick. The bill, drafted in April, aimed to restrict congressional members from owning or trading certain assets, including securities, futures, and commodities, highlighting his stance on government accountability and financial reform.
