Chad Chronister, President-elect Donald Trump’s chosen nominee to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), has withdrawn his name from consideration, Bloomberg reports.
Chronister, the Sheriff of Hillsborough County, Florida, cited a desire to continue his work in Florida as the reason for his decision.
In a statement posted on X, Chronister said there was “more work to be done” for the citizens of his county and that he was “committed to fulfilling” ongoing initiatives.
The withdrawal comes just three days after Trump announced his nomination. Chronister’s decision follows criticism from some conservatives regarding the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s enforcement of COVID-19 lockdowns. This opposition contrasts with Trump’s own stance against state and local restrictions implemented during the pandemic, despite his administration’s efforts to develop COVID-19 vaccines.
The DEA is responsible for combating illegal drug trafficking within the United States.
Chronister’s withdrawal marks the second instance of a Trump nominee for a key position withdrawing their name from consideration. Former US Representative Matt Gaetz, also from Florida, previously withdrew from consideration for Attorney General amidst allegations of sexual misconduct, which he denies. Trump has since nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to fill the role.
