Schmitt, a strong supporter of Trump and a prominent Republican figure, informed Trump’s transition team of his decision to not be considered in the running as the Justice Department head, redirecting his focus toward advancing Trump’s judicial and legislative priorities in the Senate.

The former Missouri attorney general, who joined the Senate in January, confirmed his commitment to representing Missouri’s interests and pushing for Trump’s “America First” policies in the upper chamber.

Can confirm.

I ran for the U.S. Senate to represent the people of the Show Me State and I’m just getting started.

The American people have given President @realDonaldTrump a mandate. A mandate to secure our border, make America energy dominant and fight for the forgotten men… https://t.co/LxHiqZMfks

— Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) November 11, 2024

“I ran for the U.S. Senate to represent the people of the Show Me State, and I’m just getting started,” Schmitt announced on X.

“The American people have given President [Donald Trump] a mandate — to secure our border, make America energy dominant, and fight for the forgotten men and women of this country,” Schmitt said.

He also emphasized the need for “fighters” who actively support and uphold the “America First” agenda, adding, “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and be a champion for President Trump in the Senate.”

Schmitt’s departure from the attorney general race leaves other prominent Republicans, including Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) and former Trump administration official Jeffrey Clark, in contention for the position, among others, such as Matt Whitaker, who served as acting attorney general during Trump’s first term.

Schmitt was thought to be a frontrunner for the role due to his strong legal background and unwavering support for Trump’s policies.

This decision reflects a pattern for Schmitt, who also passed on other prestigious roles, such as leading the Senate GOP’s campaign committee for the 2026 midterm elections.

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Schmitt’s choice to remain focused on his Senate responsibilities suggests he views his role in the upper chamber as more advantageous to Trump, considering the narrow majority Republicans will hold in the next Congress.

Republicans are on track to hold at least 52 seats in the chamber, meaning Trump must be cautious about naming any political appointees from the Senate in order to maintain that narrow lead.