Less than two weeks after Matt Gaetz withdrew his consideration for the position of Attorney General amid controversy surrounding an investigation into sex trafficking, illegal drug use, and sex with a minor, more Trump appointees are stepping back. On Tuesday, December 3, Trump’s pick to lead the Drug Enforcement Agency, Chad Chronister, announced he would withdraw from the nomination process.
Unlike Gaetz, who had many clear reasons for issuing his statement of withdrawal, Chronister’s decision seems to come out of the blue. He announced his withdrawal in a post on X, claiming he would instead focus on his current position as a Florida sheriff.
“There is more work to be done for the citizens of Hillsborough County and a lot of initiatives I am committed to fulfilling,” he wrote. “I sincerely appreciate the nomination and outpouring of support by the American people, and I look forward to continuing my service as Sheriff of Hillsborough County.”
Chronister has maintained a relatively low media profile compared to other, more controversial, Trump cabinet picks. His biggest criticisms came from members of his party when he arrested a Tampa pastor for violating quarantine orders and holding services in 2020. Though nearly five years ago now, many Republicans still hold a grudge against Chronister for that decision, including Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie, who posted his disdain on X following the announcement of Chronister’s appointment.
“I’m going to call ‘em like I see ‘em,” he wrote. “Trump’s nominee for head of DEA should be disqualified for ordering the arrest [of] a pastor who defied COVID lockdowns.” Massie is a member of the House Judiciary and House Rules Committees.
More controversy looms over Trump’s pick for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth after reports of alcohol abuse and sexual assault resurfaced against the Fox News host. Though Hagseth has doubled down that he will not be withdrawing his nomination, there are serious questions about whether or not Congress will approve him. Sources close to Trump have revealed that he is already considering a backup to Hegseth, floating the idea of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Hegseth reportedly told incoming Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker that he would abstain from drinking alcohol if appointed to the position. Other GOP leaders have begun meeting with Hegseth, discussing his policy plans and dancing around his issues.
