Matthew Louis Gaetz II, born May 7, 1982, is a former U.S. Congressman from Florida’s 1st district, serving from 2017 until his resignation in 2024.
A Republican and ally of Donald Trump, Gaetz gained notoriety for his far-right views and controversial actions.
Recently, a House Ethics Committee report accused him of paying for sex with multiple women, including a minor, and using illegal drugs during his tenure in office.
Gaetz has denied these allegations, claiming bias in the investigation.
Matt Gaetz parents
Matthew is the son of Don Gaetz, a prominent Florida politician and businessman, and Victoria Gaetz.
Don is a notable figure in Florida politics. He served in the Florida State Senate from 2006 to 2016 and held the position of Senate President from 2012 to 2014.
His leadership in the Senate was marked by significant legislative initiatives, particularly in education and healthcare.
Before his political career, Don was a successful businessman, co-founding a healthcare company that provided services to nursing homes.
As a seasoned politician, Don has been a mentor to Matthew, guiding him through the intricacies of political life.
Matthew also has a sister named Katie, who has also been involved in various community activities.
Early career
Gaetz began his professional journey after completing his education. He graduated from Florida State University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science degree in interdisciplinary studies.
He then pursued a law degree at the College of William & Mary, graduating in 2007.
Following his admission to the Florida Bar in 2008, Gaetz worked for a short time at a law firm, but his ambitions lay in public service and politics.
In 2010, Gaetz entered the political arena by winning a special election for the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 4th district.
His campaign focused on conservative principles, and he quickly garnered attention for his outspoken views on various issues.
During his time in the Florida legislature, he was known for his combative style and willingness to challenge both Democrats and some members of his own party.
He served on several committees and was involved in key legislative initiatives, particularly those related to education reform and healthcare.
Gaetz was re-elected unopposed in subsequent elections through 2014, solidifying his position as a rising star within Florida politics.
Later career
In 2016, Gaetz made the leap to national politics by running for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida’s 1st congressional district.
His campaign capitalized on his established reputation as a staunch conservative and supporter of Donald Trump, who had recently been elected President.
Gaetz won the election with a significant majority, taking office in January 2017.
Once in Congress, Gaetz quickly became known for his vocal support of Trump and his alignment with the far-right faction of the Republican Party.
He participated actively in high-profile issues such as immigration reform, tax cuts, and healthcare policy.
However, Gaetz’s tenure was not without controversy.
In March 2021, he became embroiled in a federal investigation regarding allegations of sex trafficking involving minors.
These allegations included claims that he had paid for sex with multiple women, including a minor, which he has vehemently denied.
The investigation drew significant media attention and cast a shadow over his congressional career.
Despite these challenges, Gaetz remained a prominent figure within the Republican Party.
In November 2024, he was nominated by Trump to serve as U.S. Attorney General, reflecting his close ties to the former president.
However, amid ongoing investigations and controversies surrounding his conduct, Gaetz withdrew from consideration shortly thereafter.
In December 2024, facing mounting pressure from both sides of the aisle due to the ongoing investigations and ethical concerns raised by the House Ethics Committee regarding his alleged misconduct during his time in office, Gaetz announced his resignation from Congress.
