WASHINGTON – Rep. Matt Gaetz (R., Fla.) Said Friday that he would not step down in light of mounting pressure over reports the FBI has been investigating him since last summer, in part over whether he violated federal sex trafficking laws.
“Of course not,” Mr. Gaetz said in a text message Friday, indicating whether he would leave office. He declined to say more and mentioned Good Friday. His attorney also said Mr. Gaetz would not resign.
With the House on hiatus, members have largely remained silent on Mr. Gaetz since minority leader Kevin McCarthy (R., California) earlier this week referred to “serious implications” in connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigation. . But in the state capital of Tallahassee, Republicans were already debating who would replace Mr Gaetz, people familiar with the talks said.
“His political brethren are already busy taking seats,” said former Florida Rep. David Jolly. “They’re not isolating him – they’re already assuming Matt’s political career is over.”
“These scandals have reached a point where there is no escape,” said Mr. Jolly. “We’ve clearly reached that point for Matt in Florida politics.”