Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) expressed her skepticism about former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) being nominated for U.S. attorney general, comparing it to the controversial appointment of former Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.). Murkowski stated that she did not consider Gaetz a serious candidate for the position and emphasized the need for a qualified individual to serve as attorney general.

President-elect Donald Trump’s surprising announcement of Gaetz’s nomination drew attention, with Trump praising Gaetz as a skilled attorney despite previous sex trafficking allegations against him. Gaetz subsequently resigned from Congress, halting an Ethics Committee investigation into allegations of misconduct.

Murkowski highlighted the importance of the Senate’s role in confirming nominees for key positions, stating that it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate candidates before confirming them. She emphasized the Senate’s responsibility to exercise its advise and consent role in the nomination process.

As a key figure in the Republican Party, Murkowski, along with Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), holds significant influence over the party’s decisions in the Senate. With the party’s narrow majority, the incoming Senate majority leader, John Thune (R-S.D.), faces challenges in confirming Trump’s nominees quickly.

Trump has called for swift confirmation of his nominees and has even suggested using recess appointments if necessary. Thune echoed Trump’s urgency, emphasizing the need to expedite the confirmation process to fulfill the mandate given by voters.

Murkowski’s office did not provide immediate details on her stance regarding a confirmation vote. As discussions continue within the Senate, the confirmation process for Gaetz and other nominees remains a topic of significant interest and debate.