Known for his contentious political career, former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz has joined Cameo, a platform that allows users to send customized video messages. Over the weekend, the former lawmaker started making movies for $525 a piece. In one video, Gaetz joked about unleashing Predator drones on his adversaries, which sparked outrage.
Attorney General Nomination Withdrawal Sparks Career Shift
After President-elect Donald Trump nominated Gaetz for the position of U.S. attorney general, Gaetz resigned from Congress last week. Resurfaced claims of sexual misbehavior and illegal drug usage sparked strong political and popular opposition to his appointment. Gaetz has repeatedly disputed these allegations. He removed his name from consideration as a result of this response.
Later, Trump proposed former Florida attorney general Pam Bondi for the position at DOJ. In one of his videos, Gaetz said Bondi was a good fit for the role.
Controversial Comments in Video Messages
Gaetz joked in a Cameo video that went viral that he couldn't "order Predator strikes" on his adversaries since he wouldn't be in charge of the Department of Justice. In 2018, the U.S. Air Force deactivated the Predator drone, which has been employed in terrorist operations in the past.
In the video, he made it clear that the Department of Defense, not the DOJ, is in charge of such activities. Despite its seeming lightheartedness, the comment's provocative tone garnered notice.
Gaetz also urged the viewer of the video to "have as much fun as possible" and conveyed hope for the DOJ's future under the Trump administration.
Gaetz on Cameo: Profile and Activity
Gaetz joined Cameo on Friday, according to his profile, which reads, “I served in Congress. Trump nominated me to be US Attorney General (that didn’t work out). Once I fired the House Speaker.”
His significant contribution to the removal of California Republican Kevin McCarthy from the House speakership in October 2023 is mentioned in the profile. Gaetz has earned eight 5-star reviews and finished many videos since joining. As he separates himself from his political career, his transition to Cameo represents a singular turning point.
Precedent Among Politicians
Former politicians have joined Cameo before, including Gaetz. The platform was also utilized by George Santos, a Republican from New York who was removed from the House in December 2023. On Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Santos was the focus of a humorous segment when the presenter asked for videos with fictitious names. Later, Santos filed a slander lawsuit against Kimmel, but was unsuccessful.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Scrutiny
Reactions to Gaetz's cameo début have been conflicting. Some condemned his humor, especially in relation to Predator drones, while others applauded his desire to interact with the people.