Exclusive: Gaetz could be next Florida attorney general

Matt Gaetz, a former congressman, is considering running for Florida's attorney general position, despite controversy surrounding his past nomination for US attorney general. Gaetz has strong name recognition and is well-liked among Florida's GOP base, making him a formidable candidate. A recent survey found that Gaetz would lead Attorney General James Uthmeier 39%-21% in a hypothetical primary matchup. The two are already at odds over the investigation into right-wing influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate, who were recently allowed to return to the US after facing sex-trafficking charges in Romania. Uthmeier announced an investigation into the Tates, while Gaetz criticized Uthmeier's motives. Despite Gaetz's lead, 40% of GOP voters remain undecided, and a race against Uthmeier would not be a guaranteed win. Gaetz has considered running for state attorney general in the past and hasn't ruled it out for 2026, and is also considering a run for governor. The winner of the GOP primary in a statewide race is typically the favorite to win in the general election, given Florida's Republican lean. The 2026 ballot could feature several high-profile races, including a potential bid by Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis.