INDems Statement Regarding Jim Banks’ Support of Matt Gaetz’s Nomination for Attorney General

On Wednesday, November 13, President-elect Donald Trump announced that he was nominating U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz from Florida to be the next Attorney General. Gaetz has faced extensive legal issues, and reports indicated that news of his appointment was met with an “audible gasp” from fellow House Republicans in a closed-door meeting. 

The following day, far-right Indiana U.S. Sen. Jim Banks commented about Gaetz’s nomination to reporters, saying, “He’s very talented, and anyone who spent any time with him knows he’s very smart and capable, I’m going to vote to confirm.”

“Matt Gaetz’s nomination for Attorney General is a clear indicator that Trump is prepared to divide our country for the sake of establishing his Project 2025 Agenda. Jim Banks is supporting his nomination before the public even gets to see the House Ethics report into Gaetz,” said Indiana Democratic Party Chair Mike Schmuhl. 

“It is unconscionable that a man who has faced so many legal issues ranging from sex trafficking of minors and illicit drug use would be tapped to lead the Department of Justice. Banks should reconsider his position and reject this truly dangerous selection.”

In the past, Gaetz has faced investigations from the Department of Justice into his possible involvement with the sex-trafficking of a 17-year-old girl. The House was reported to be releasing an Ethics report into Gaetz in the coming days, and Gaetz’s resignation from the House this week may have stopped the Ethics investigation from being released.

Sen. Todd Young has still not said if he will support Gaetz’s nomination as AG.