Former Representative Matt Gaetz has withdrawn from consideration as Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general following allegations of sexual misconduct with a 17-year-old girl. Gaetz denied the allegations, but CNN reported that the woman involved had told the House ethics committee that she had two sexual encounters with him, including one with another adult woman. Gaetz’s withdrawal was welcomed by organizations like Rainn, the US’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, who said it was in response to survivors and advocates using their voices to demand accountability.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about Trump’s other cabinet nominees, including Pete Hegseth for defense secretary and Robert F Kennedy Jr for health secretary, who have also faced allegations of sexual misconduct. Republican senators reacted to Gaetz’s withdrawal, with Mitch McConnell calling it appropriate and senator Cynthia Lummis saying it was good that Gaetz recognized he was a distraction.
The progressive women’s group UltraViolet celebrated Gaetz’s withdrawal but pointed out the other nominees accused of sexual abuse. In response to Gaetz’s withdrawal, Rainn emphasized the importance of considering all facts about nominees facing allegations of sexual assault. The House also passed a bill giving the government broad powers to punish non-profit organizations it deems support terrorism, a move criticized by Democrats and advocacy groups. The US supreme court will consider a case on trans rights in December, involving doctors previously discredited by judges, highlighting a significant LGBTQ+ rights issue.
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