President-elect Trump said former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) has a “wonderful future” ahead of him following the former congressman’s withdrawal as Trump’s nominee to become attorney general.
Trump said in a post on Truth Social that he “greatly” appreciates Gaetz’s efforts in seeking to lead the Department of Justice (DOJ) but recognized he didn’t want to be a distraction.
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5002616-trump-praises-gaetz-after-ag-nod-falls-through/
What reason did he give for stepping down?
He didn't want to be a distraction was his lie.