President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday announced Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., as his pick for attorney general.

If confirmed, Gaetz will head up the Justice Department after Trump is sworn in for his second term in January.

Early contenders for the post included sitting U.S. senators, former Justice Department personnel and at least one top White House adviser from Trump's first term.

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"He's going to want someone who he knows, likes and trusts," Former <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6364397363112" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Acting Attorney General</a> Matt Whitaker told Fox News about the role last week. "He's going to want someone who was there from the beginning."

This is a breaking news story. Check back soon for updates.

<div class="author-bio">Breanne Deppisch is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital covering the 2024 election and other national news.</div>

{ai:summary}President-elect Donald Trump has selected Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., as his nominee for attorney general, pending confirmation. Gaetz will lead the Justice Department following Trump's inauguration in January.Former Acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker noted that Trump prefers someone he knows and trusts for this critical role. Updates on the situation are forthcoming. #politics

Trump taps Matt Gaetz for attorney general

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