Former U.S. Representative Matt Gaetz has embarked on a new journey in broadcast media.
Former Representative Matt Gaetz is set to become a television show host on One America News Network, following his recent resignation from Congress amid various controversies, the Washington Examiner reported.
After an illustrious yet turbulent career in politics, Gaetz confirmed his transition to media last month, following President-elect Donald Trump's termination of his brief nomination for U.S. attorney general.
The lack of necessary senatorial support prompted Gaetz to withdraw from consideration just eight days after publicizing his nomination.
The program, dubbed "The Matt Gaetz Show," represents a significant pivot for Gaetz, who has foregone further pursuits in government roles. The announcement came amidst unresolved ethical inquiries, including severe allegations which remained partly unaddressed due to his resignation from Congress.
As the host of his own program, Gaetz will be harnessing the extensive reach of OAN, which is accessible through 85 stations nationwide and a dedicated streaming application.
Despite recent operational challenges, including a severed contract with DirecTV last year and subsequent legal complications, OAN continues to be a pivotal platform in conservative media circles.
Chanel Rion, an anchor at OAN, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition to the network. She stated:
Christmas came early with the MATT GAETZ SHOW. Welcome, Matt and Ginger to the @OANN family. THIS is going to be fun.
Prior to his latest media role, Gaetz engaged with his audience through personalized content on Cameo, crafting messages ranging from roasts to motivational speeches, initially priced at $400 but recently reduced. This move depicted his continued popularity and engagement with a broad fanbase despite stepping back from the political limelight.
Moreover, an ethics investigation concerning allegations of drug use and involvement with a minor overshadowed his political career. The deliberations over releasing the House Ethics Committee's report ceased with his resignation, as the committee's jurisdiction extends only to current congressional members. Subsequent discussions within the committee reflected the tension of managing public perception while adhering to procedural norms.
Internal votes by House Republicans leaned against releasing the detailed findings, hinting at potential reconsideration should Gaetz return to a federal position, which he has firmly negated. Subsequently, Donald Trump nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as his new choice for the attorney general post.
Despite the controversies and the abrupt end to his attorney general nomination, Gaetz's pivot to media could signal a new chapter for the former congressman, resonating with his penchant for public engagement albeit in a different arena. His decision to refrain from returning to congress solidifies his commitment to this transition, leaving political endeavors behind.
In conclusion, Matt Gaetz's shift from a tumultuous political career to a potentially influential media role marks a significant chapter in his public life. His new venture on One America News Network offers him a platform to continue engaging with viewers, notwithstanding the unresolved ethical concerns from his past in politics.