In a deep dive into the influence the father of Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., has had on his son’s political rise, a Florida political operative claimed that “Papa Gaetz” was using his considerable political influence to tamp down criticism of his embattled son.
According to Politico’s Gary Fineout, it is no secret in Florida political circles that state Sen. Don Gaetz — known as “Papa Gaetz” — has used his years lording over and wheeling and dealing in Panhandle politics, as well as his substantial wealth, to guide his son — referred to as “Baby Gaetz” — into the public eye and Congress.
