Part 2/6:
Gates' departure from consideration came as no surprise given the growing scrutiny over his conduct, specifically an investigation by the House Ethics Committee into allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior with a minor. He has publicly denied the accusations, asserting his innocence against claims that have cast a shadow over his candidacy. It is reported that a significant number of Republican Senators—at least eight—were prepared to vote against him, illustrating the challenging environment Trump faced in this nomination process.