WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz quietly flew into Washington this past weekend at the request of former President Donald Trump and met privately with him, sources familiar with the matter tell multiple outlets. The appearance marks a surprising detour from a major Turning Point USA summit, fueling speculation that Gaetz is under consideration for a special prosecutor role.
According to coverage by Hindustan Times, Gaetz was expected to speak at the Student Action Summit organized by Turning Point USA but canceled those plans before flying to Washington on short notice.
Social media posts attributed to insiders and Gaetz’s spokesperson indicate the visit was prompted by Trump. One post on X (formerly Twitter) stated: “MATT GAETZ PULLED FROM CHARLIE KIRK EVENT – SUMMONED TO D.C. BY TRUMP.” Gaetz later said on X that he had “an unexpected personal matter” and wasn’t “summoned,” but praised Trump and hinted at ongoing loyalty to the MAGA movement.
Interest in Gaetz’s role in the potential Epstein investigation has grown. The Daily Beast reported that there’s rising pressure among MAGA circles for Trump to name Gaetz as special prosecutor in the Jeffrey Epstein case. Supporters, including Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk, publicly backed the idea at the Turning Point event, suggesting Gaetz would be the “no brainer” choice.
If appointed, Gaetz would lead a politically explosive investigation into whether the Epstein scandal involved a broader cover-up. His rumored candidacy has drawn criticism due to a history of serious allegations – including those involving underage sex – documented in past ethics and Justice Department inquiries.
This weekend’s developments raise fresh questions about Trump’s post-2024 strategy for the Department of Justice. Placing an unorthodox, loyalist figure like Gaetz in a prominent investigatory position would represent a sharp break from traditional appointments and could reshape how Justice navigates politically sensitive probes.
Q&A: Matt Gaetz, Trump, and the Special Prosecutor Speculation
Q: When did Matt Gaetz meet with Donald Trump?
A: Gaetz reportedly flew to Washington, D.C., over the weekend of July 13–14, 2025. He skipped a high-profile Turning Point USA event in order to meet privately with the former president. The meeting was not officially announced in advance.
Q: Why is this meeting significant?
A: The meeting sparked speculation that Gaetz may be under consideration for a future appointment as a special prosecutor, particularly in connection to a potential investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein case and its alleged cover-up.
Q: What was Gaetz supposed to be doing that weekend instead?
A: Gaetz had been scheduled to speak at the Turning Point USA Student Action Summit, a major gathering of conservative figures. His abrupt absence was noticed and commented on by both attendees and political observers.
Q: Did Gaetz or Trump confirm the topic of the meeting?
A: No official agenda was released. Gaetz posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he had an “unexpected personal matter” and did not directly confirm or deny reports of the meeting or the special prosecutor rumors.
Q: Is Gaetz qualified to be a special prosecutor?
A: Gaetz holds a law degree and previously served on the House Judiciary Committee. However, his name has not been associated with prosecutorial roles before, and he has faced legal scrutiny himself, including a past DOJ investigation into alleged misconduct, which was ultimately closed without charges.
Q: What would his role as a special prosecutor involve?
A: If appointed, Gaetz would be tasked with independently investigating possible criminal conduct or government cover-ups, likely related to the Epstein case. Such an appointment would be highly controversial and politically charged, particularly due to Gaetz’s close ties to Trump and his own legal history.
Q: Are there other candidates being considered for the role?
A: Publicly, no other names have been floated with the same level of insider support. Conservative activists and figures like Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk have publicly backed Gaetz for the role.
Q: Has Trump made any official announcement?
A: As of now, Trump has not made any formal announcement regarding the appointment of a special prosecutor or Gaetz’s potential role. The speculation is driven by insider commentary, event absences, and signals from Trump’s political base.
