'Papa' Gaetz Discusses His Son's Choice for AG: 'I have someone in Washington on speed dial'
Don Gaetz remarked, "Matt has been investigated by the House Ethics Committee, the Department of Justice, the Federal Elections Commission and probably the Rotary Club."
TroibNews 
TALLAHASSEE, Florida — The unexpected nomination of Matt Gaetz as attorney general by Donald Trump has caught many off guard, including his father, Don Gaetz, a 76-year-old influential Florida powerbroker.
Don Gaetz, who recently secured a state Senate seat himself, shared on Thursday that he and Matt's mother, Vicky Gaetz, “really had no prior warning until Matt called us and said that the president just offered me the attorney generalship. I think it’s fair to say Matt was not seeking the job.”
The implications of Matt Gaetz’s nomination have led to speculation that past controversies involving him, particularly a closed federal investigation into allegations of sex trafficking, may resurface and impact his confirmation by a Republican-controlled Senate.
“Matt has been investigated by the House Ethics Committee, the Department of Justice, the Federal Elections Commission and probably the Rotary Club,” remarked Don Gaetz, affectionately known as “Papa Gaetz.” He emphasized that despite the extensive scrutiny, “He’s been investigated by everyone for more than two years and there’s never been any reason to be charged with anything and he’s denied all these fraudulent politically motivated allegations.”
The Gaetz family is no stranger to political challenges. With Matt Gaetz, a known firebrand from northwest Florida who played a role in ousting former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the bond between him and his father runs deep, as both have committed themselves to the world of politics.
Don Gaetz has deep-rooted ties to Florida’s political scene, having served as president of the Florida Senate. His political history includes confrontations with other prominent Republicans, including a notable feud with then-Gov. Rick Scott, which led to Scott blocking his ambition to become president of the University of West Florida.
This potential elevation of his son coincides with Don Gaetz's recent return to the state Senate after an eight-year hiatus from office. During his previous tenure, he was known for openly disputing with other legislators, even facing backlash over Florida's redistricting efforts that were later overturned in court.
Expressing confidence in Matt’s resilience against an intense confirmation process that might arise, Don Gaetz stated, “Confirmation is always a dice roll. Some people are more natural at confirmation. Typically a sitting senator finds it easier to be confirmed. Someone who is way outside may find it harder.”
He continued, “Matt is a guy who has always looked for an opportunity to be an advocate for the issues he cares about. He’s been a strong supporter of the president ... and a harsh critic of Biden-Harris administration.”
Don Gaetz dismissed allegations surrounding his son's involvement with a minor — charges that Matt Gaetz has consistently denied, despite being investigated by federal authorities and the House Ethics Committee. This investigation was partly prompted by allegations from a former Florida tax collector currently serving time in federal prison. In February 2023, federal authorities concluded their investigation.
There is a growing call from some, including the attorney who represented the then-minor linked to the investigation, for the House Ethics Committee to release its findings.
Regarding Matt's abrupt resignation from Congress on Wednesday, Don Gaetz explained that it was a strategic decision aimed at helping Republicans retain their majority by avoiding simultaneous departures. Trump has also selected Rep. Michael Waltz from Florida and Rep. Elise Stefanik from New York for roles in his administration.
“If they all left at the same time you could lose the House majority,” Don Gaetz noted.
State Republicans hold a significant majority in the Florida Senate, a political sphere that Don Gaetz has significantly influenced over the past decade.
Entering the chamber as an independent force, Don Gaetz acknowledges that he was not elected with the backing of Gov. Ron DeSantis. The possibility of his son holding a key position in the Trump administration could further enhance his influence.
However, Don Gaetz has clarified that he has not sought a specific role within the Senate. Incoming Senate President Ben Albritton has already chosen his leadership team for the next two years but has yet to announce all committee chairs. With a diverse background, including running a successful healthcare company and serving as a school superintendent, Don Gaetz is ready to contribute in whatever capacity he is needed.
“I will play where the coaches put me,” he stated, while humorously noting the advantage of having his son in a prominent position. “With Matt at least I have someone in Washington on speed dial,” he concluded.
Allen M Lee contributed to this report for TROIB News
Don Gaetz, who recently secured a state Senate seat himself, shared on Thursday that he and Matt's mother, Vicky Gaetz, “really had no prior warning until Matt called us and said that the president just offered me the attorney generalship. I think it’s fair to say Matt was not seeking the job.”
The implications of Matt Gaetz’s nomination have led to speculation that past controversies involving him, particularly a closed federal investigation into allegations of sex trafficking, may resurface and impact his confirmation by a Republican-controlled Senate.
“Matt has been investigated by the House Ethics Committee, the Department of Justice, the Federal Elections Commission and probably the Rotary Club,” remarked Don Gaetz, affectionately known as “Papa Gaetz.” He emphasized that despite the extensive scrutiny, “He’s been investigated by everyone for more than two years and there’s never been any reason to be charged with anything and he’s denied all these fraudulent politically motivated allegations.”
The Gaetz family is no stranger to political challenges. With Matt Gaetz, a known firebrand from northwest Florida who played a role in ousting former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the bond between him and his father runs deep, as both have committed themselves to the world of politics.
Don Gaetz has deep-rooted ties to Florida’s political scene, having served as president of the Florida Senate. His political history includes confrontations with other prominent Republicans, including a notable feud with then-Gov. Rick Scott, which led to Scott blocking his ambition to become president of the University of West Florida.
This potential elevation of his son coincides with Don Gaetz's recent return to the state Senate after an eight-year hiatus from office. During his previous tenure, he was known for openly disputing with other legislators, even facing backlash over Florida's redistricting efforts that were later overturned in court.
Expressing confidence in Matt’s resilience against an intense confirmation process that might arise, Don Gaetz stated, “Confirmation is always a dice roll. Some people are more natural at confirmation. Typically a sitting senator finds it easier to be confirmed. Someone who is way outside may find it harder.”
He continued, “Matt is a guy who has always looked for an opportunity to be an advocate for the issues he cares about. He’s been a strong supporter of the president ... and a harsh critic of Biden-Harris administration.”
Don Gaetz dismissed allegations surrounding his son's involvement with a minor — charges that Matt Gaetz has consistently denied, despite being investigated by federal authorities and the House Ethics Committee. This investigation was partly prompted by allegations from a former Florida tax collector currently serving time in federal prison. In February 2023, federal authorities concluded their investigation.
There is a growing call from some, including the attorney who represented the then-minor linked to the investigation, for the House Ethics Committee to release its findings.
Regarding Matt's abrupt resignation from Congress on Wednesday, Don Gaetz explained that it was a strategic decision aimed at helping Republicans retain their majority by avoiding simultaneous departures. Trump has also selected Rep. Michael Waltz from Florida and Rep. Elise Stefanik from New York for roles in his administration.
“If they all left at the same time you could lose the House majority,” Don Gaetz noted.
State Republicans hold a significant majority in the Florida Senate, a political sphere that Don Gaetz has significantly influenced over the past decade.
Entering the chamber as an independent force, Don Gaetz acknowledges that he was not elected with the backing of Gov. Ron DeSantis. The possibility of his son holding a key position in the Trump administration could further enhance his influence.
However, Don Gaetz has clarified that he has not sought a specific role within the Senate. Incoming Senate President Ben Albritton has already chosen his leadership team for the next two years but has yet to announce all committee chairs. With a diverse background, including running a successful healthcare company and serving as a school superintendent, Don Gaetz is ready to contribute in whatever capacity he is needed.
“I will play where the coaches put me,” he stated, while humorously noting the advantage of having his son in a prominent position. “With Matt at least I have someone in Washington on speed dial,” he concluded.
Allen M Lee contributed to this report for TROIB News
