House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., reiterated on Sunday that he believes the House Ethics Committee should not publish its report regarding former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who is Donald Trump’s choice for attorney general.

“It should not be released,” Johnson stated during an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

He emphasized that Gaetz has already left Congress and argued that the committee should avoid investigating private individuals. CNN host Jake Tapper reminded him that the Ethics Committee has previously disclosed reports even after members resigned.

“I wasn’t the speaker back then,” Johnson replied.

However, some conservative colleagues of Johnson and Gaetz believe that the report should not remain confidential, at least to those in the Senate. Senator Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., expressed on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the Ethics Committee should “absolutely” release its findings on Gaetz.

“That should definitely influence our decision-making,” he mentioned, adding: “The background of Matt Gaetz is important.”

“Should it be made public? That will likely be part of the discussions,” he continued.

Trump’s selection of Gaetz as his attorney general nominee has created quite a stir in political circles. As a strong supporter of Trump, Gaetz is known for his divisive approaches and dramatic statements rather than substantive policy work.

Gaetz’s nomination raises concerns that Trump may seek revenge against his opponents. The former congressman has frequently defended Trump against his critics.

Johnson mentioned that he anticipates Trump’s nominees will “disrupt the established order.”

“We cannot maintain the status quo with appointments during times like these,” he stated, adding: “It’s a new era in America, and these individuals will help facilitate that change.”

Despite the controversy, Gaetz was previously investigated by federal authorities, and some Senate Republicans have shown interest in the ethics inquiries surrounding him, as the Senate needs to confirm his nomination.

The Justice Department looked into allegations of sex trafficking involving Gaetz, but the inquiry concluded without charges. Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee is continuing to investigate claims related to inappropriate behavior with a 17-year-old.

Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas, also recently stated that he and other legislators should have access to the Ethics Committee’s report, which includes accusations of drug use and other misconduct.

On Sunday, Johnson further discussed efforts to advance Trump’s policy goals in Congress, including tax reductions and immigration reform. When asked about the possibility of eliminating taxes on tips, a promise made by Trump, Johnson affirmed his desire to achieve that, but cautioned that “the calculations must ensure it’s financially sustainable.”

When asked if the public is ready for significant upheaval that could result from mass deportations under Trump’s administration, Johnson responded, “I’m not certain that’s the outcome we’re headed for,” specifying that he anticipates targeting criminals for deportation.

“Let’s start there and see how things develop,” he said. “This will require careful planning and thorough discussion.”