Matt Gaetz, the outspoken MAGA firebrand from Florida, is officially out of Congress—but don’t expect him to disappear from the political stage anytime soon. At Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest on Sunday, Gaetz addressed the swirling rumors about his next move, and let’s just say, he didn’t disappoint. From potential gubernatorial runs to taking a swipe at the Senate establishment that blocked his path to becoming Attorney General, Gaetz showed he’s keeping his options wide open.
After stepping down from the House last month, Gaetz made headlines by withdrawing his name from consideration for Trump’s Attorney General post. Why? A lack of support from establishment Republicans in the Senate. Shocker. The swamp strikes again. But instead of licking his wounds, Gaetz seems to be leaning into his role as a rabble-rouser on the outside, with hints of a bigger political comeback down the road.
Speaking to a crowd of conservative activists, Gaetz teased the possibility of running for governor of Florida once Ron DeSantis is termed out in 2026. But he didn’t stop there. He also floated the idea of taking Marco Rubio’s Senate seat when it becomes vacant, drawing thunderous cheers from the AmericaFest crowd. If there’s one thing Gaetz knows, it’s how to fire up the base.
🚨BREAKING: Matt Gaetz says he might run for Senate in Florida.
pic.twitter.com/fuiyzpuwr2— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 22, 2024
For now, though, Gaetz is focusing on connecting directly with conservative audiences through media. He’s set to host a primetime show on One America News (OAN) and co-host a podcast with fellow OAN personality Dan Ball. It’s clear Gaetz plans to leverage his media presence to stay in the public eye, with unfiltered conversations and a focus on reaching younger generations of conservatives. According to Ball, Gaetz’s authenticity and leadership will “take OAN to the next level.” Love him or hate him, the man knows how to draw a crowd.
And let’s not forget his nod to James Madison, reminding everyone that the most powerful position in America is that of citizen. While Gaetz may not hold elected office right now, he’s made it clear he’s not going quietly. Whether it’s in Tallahassee, the Senate, or behind a camera, Gaetz is a force to be reckoned with—and it looks like he’s just getting started.