Republican Sen.-elect Bernie Moreno issued a statement in support of President Trump’s Cabinet appointments, emphasizing the importance of Senate Republicans confirming his nominees quickly in order to implement the “America First” agenda. Moreno defended attorney general nominee Matt Gaetz, stating that he is the right leader to clean up corruption and restore the Department of Justice to following the rule of law. Gaetz has faced criticism from Democrats due to allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor, but the Trump transition team remains confident in his ability to serve as attorney general.
Trump’s nomination of Gaetz for attorney general came as a surprise to many, with Democrats and conservatives alike expressing mixed reactions. Transition team spokesperson and press secretary pick, Karoline Leavitt, praised Gaetz’s integrity and impressive track record as a litigator during his time on the House Judiciary Committee. Despite the controversy surrounding Gaetz’s nomination, the Trump transition team is standing by their decision and is optimistic that the Senate will confirm him for the position.
In addition to Gaetz, Trump’s other Cabinet appointments, including Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, HHS secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Director of National Intelligence nominee Tulsi Gabbard, have faced criticism from Democrats and media pundits. Moreno defended these nominees, praising Gabbard’s military experience and commitment to the Constitution, Kennedy’s focus on prioritizing the health interests of the American people over Big Pharma, and Hegseth’s ability to push back against bureaucracy at the Pentagon.
Moreno, who recently defeated Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, believes that the American people have given President Trump a mandate to lead and expects the Republican majority in the Senate to unite in confirming Trump’s nominees. He expressed confidence in the abilities of Gaetz, Gabbard, Kennedy, and Hegseth to effectively lead their respective departments and implement the changes needed to advance the interests of the American people. Moreno’s support for Trump’s Cabinet appointments aligns with the president-elect’s goal of prioritizing American interests and implementing the “America First” agenda as soon as possible.
Democrats have been vocal in their criticism of Trump’s Cabinet appointments, particularly Gaetz, citing concerns over his alleged misconduct and questioning his suitability for the role of attorney general. However, the Trump transition team remains steadfast in their support of Gaetz and is determined to move forward with his confirmation process. With the Senate majority at stake, Moreno and other Senate Republicans are focused on delivering a strong Cabinet to advance the administration’s agenda and fulfill the mandate given by the American people in the recent election. The controversy surrounding Gaetz’s nomination highlights the political divisions and tensions that continue to shape the transition period as Trump prepares to assume office.