Trump taps Matt Gaetz for attorney general

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.

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT LOOKING TO WIND DOWN TRUMP CRIMINAL CASES AHEAD OF INAUGURATION

"He's going to want someone who he knows, likes and trusts," Former Acting Attorney General 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.