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Chad Chronister, who was chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, announced his withdrawal from consideration just three days after his nomination was announced. Chronister, a sheriff in Hillsborough County, Florida, faced backlash from Trump’s political base due to his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, including his decision to arrest a pastor for violating lockdown orders. Despite initial praise from Florida Republicans and Gov. Ron DeSantis, Chronister decided to withdraw as he felt compelled to continue serving Hillsborough County and fulfill ongoing initiatives. Trump had selected Chronister to work alongside Attorney General Pam Bondi to combat the flow of illegal drugs across the Southern border.
Covid-related controversies led to Chronister being criticized by Congressional Republicans, which likely influenced his decision to withdraw. The sheriff’s decision to arrest the pastor was cited as a reason for his unpopularity among some lawmakers. In response to the criticism, Chronister defended his actions, stating that the pastor’s actions posed a threat to public safety. This incident, along with other factors, contributed to Chronister’s withdrawal from consideration for the DEA administrator role.
Chronister’s withdrawal follows a similar move by former Rep. Matt Gaetz, who stepped away from consideration for attorney general due to sexual misconduct allegations. Chronister’s decision highlights the challenges faced by potential nominees in a highly scrutinized political environment.
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