Trump’s pick for DEA administrator withdraws from consideration
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Hillsborough County, Fla., Sheriff Chad Chronister has pulled out of the running to head the DEA in the upcoming Trump administration. Chris O'Meara / AP file
Chad Chronister, the sheriff of Hillsborough County, Florida, has withdrawn from consideration to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) under President-elect Donald Trump. The sheriff made the announcement on social media, explaining that the weight of the responsibility had led him to reconsider, and he would focus on his duties in Hillsborough County instead. He thanked the American people for their support and expressed his commitment to continuing his work as sheriff.
The announcement came after mounting criticism, particularly from within the MAGA faction of the Republican Party. Some Republicans voiced opposition to Chronister’s selection, with Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky leading the charge. Massie criticized the sheriff for his enforcement of COVID-19 protocols, which included measures such as mask mandates and social distancing during the pandemic. Massie argued that these actions disqualified Chronister from the position. Following Chronister’s withdrawal, Massie posted on social media, expressing relief at the sheriff’s decision to step down from consideration.
In addition to concerns about his handling of the pandemic, there was speculation among some Trump allies that Chronister’s political loyalties might not align with those of the president-elect. Some argued that the sheriff was not a true Republican and was not closely aligned with Trump’s base, fueling doubts about his suitability for the role. It remains unclear whether these political challenges influenced Chronister’s decision to withdraw.
Chronister’s withdrawal marks the second time a Trump administration nominee has stepped down from a position. In November, former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination for attorney general, amid concerns that he would face difficulties getting confirmed in the Senate. Trump replaced Gaetz with Pam Bondi, a former state attorney general from Florida.
Trump had initially announced Chronister as his pick for DEA administrator, emphasizing the sheriff’s experience in law enforcement and his commitment to fighting the opioid epidemic. In a statement on social media, Trump said that Chronister would work with Pam Bondi, the incoming attorney general, to combat drug trafficking and prevent fentanyl from flooding the U.S. Southern Border. He also highlighted the sheriff’s role in saving lives and securing the border.
Chronister has served as sheriff of Hillsborough County since 2017, when he was appointed by then-Governor Rick Scott. He has been a part of the sheriff’s office for over three decades and has been re-elected twice to serve in the top law enforcement position in the county. Hillsborough County, which includes the city of Tampa, is one of Florida’s largest counties, and Chronister’s leadership has been central to law enforcement efforts in the area.
Notably, Chronister’s personal life intersects with the world of sports and business. His wife, Nicole DeBartolo, is the daughter of Edward DeBartolo Jr., the former owner of the San Francisco 49ers. Chronister’s father-in-law was granted a presidential pardon by Trump during his first term after pleading guilty in 1998 to failing to report a felony in a bribery case that involved former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards. This legal issue led to Edwards’ federal prison sentence, though DeBartolo did not serve time in jail and agreed to pay a hefty fine. He also relinquished ownership of the 49ers to his sister as part of the agreement.
Despite Chronister’s withdrawal, the role of DEA administrator remains vacant, with the Trump administration continuing to face challenges in filling key positions. The criticism that Chronister faced from Republican figures, particularly those in the MAGA wing, reflects the often contentious nature of the political vetting process. As President-elect Trump continues to shape his cabinet and key government roles, it’s clear that loyalty to his administration and alignment with his policies will be crucial factors in nominations going forward.
In summary, Chad Chronister’s decision to withdraw from consideration as DEA administrator comes amid criticism from Republican circles and questions about his political alignment. Despite his long tenure as sheriff, the scrutiny he faced over his COVID-19 actions and political ties led to his stepping aside. His withdrawal reflects the challenges President-elect Trump faces in appointing individuals who align with his administration’s priorities while also navigating political dynamics within his party.
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