WASHINGTON, DC, USA – President-elect Donald Trump has named Pam Bondi, a veteran prosecutor and former Florida attorney general, his attorney general nominee.
The announcement came hours after Matt Gaetz, Trump’s initial pick, withdrew his name from consideration amid mounting controversy.
Bondi, 59, has been a long-time ally of Trump and is widely recognised for her role in defending him during his first Senate impeachment trial.
Her extensive legal background, including nearly two decades as a prosecutor, positions her as a prominent choice to lead the Department of Justice.
“Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on violent criminals and made the streets safe for Florida families,” Trump wrote on social media.
If confirmed by the Senate, Bondi will oversee a department with more than 115,000 employees and a $45bn budget, placing her at the helm of implementing Trump’s ambitious justice agenda.
Her responsibilities would include tackling criminal organisations, securing US borders, and addressing Trump’s allegations of politicisation within the department.
“For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponised against me and other Republicans — not anymore,” Trump stated.
“Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting crime, and making America safe again.”
Longstanding Ties to Trump
Bondi’s relationship with Trump dates back to his 2016 presidential campaign, during which she became a vocal supporter.
In 2019, she joined Trump’s White House team to focus on impeachment messaging and served as a defence attorney during his first impeachment trial, where he was acquitted.
She later played a prominent role in Trump’s 2020 legal team, which pursued unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud.
In addition to her legal work, Bondi has headed the legal arm of the America First Policy Institute, a conservative think tank formed by former Trump staff.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham welcomed Bondi’s nomination, describing her as a “grand slam” pick. “She will be confirmed quickly,” he predicted.
Gaetz Withdraws Amid Controversy
The announcement of Bondi’s nomination follows Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal earlier on Thursday.
Gaetz, who had been Trump’s first choice for attorney general, faced scrutiny over a congressional report into allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use.
While Gaetz has denied all allegations, he said the controversy surrounding his potential appointment had become a “distraction” for the incoming administration.
“I hoped to avoid a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle by withdrawing,” Gaetz said.
Despite stepping aside, Gaetz offered his congratulations to Bondi, calling her a “stellar selection” and praising Trump’s decision.
Gaetz’s withdrawal marks a setback for Trump’s transition team, which has faced challenges in filling high-ranking positions.
However, Bondi’s nomination is expected to face smoother Senate approval, given her extensive legal credentials and alignment with Trump’s policy priorities.
As Trump continues to build his new administration, the focus now turns to how his team will navigate the confirmation process and implement his sweeping plans for the Justice Department.
