President-elect Donald Trump has tapped veteran prosecutor and loyal ally Pam Bondi to serve as Attorney General, following the dramatic withdrawal of Congressman Matt Gaetz from consideration for the role.
Bondi, a former Florida Attorney General with nearly two decades of prosecutorial experience, has been a steadfast supporter of Trump since his 2016 campaign.
She played prominent roles in defending him during his first Senate impeachment trial and in his legal battles following the 2020 election.
Her nomination, announced late Thursday, signals Trump’s intention to install loyalists in key positions as he prepares to take office.
“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 said on his social media platform.
“She will refocus the Department of Justice on its true mission: fighting crime and making America safe again.”
Bondi’s selection comes just hours after Gaetz stepped down from contention amid a storm of controversy surrounding a congressional report detailing allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use.
Gaetz, a staunch Trump ally, stated that the scrutiny surrounding his potential nomination had become a distraction and announced his withdrawal to avoid what he called a “protracted Washington scuffle.”
With Gaetz out of the picture, Trump’s team moved quickly to nominate Bondi, who is expected to face a smoother confirmation process.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has already hailed her selection, describing it as a “grand slam” for the incoming administration.
Bondi’s nomination is being viewed as a strategic move by Trump to solidify control over the Justice Department, which he has repeatedly accused of being “weaponized” against him and his allies. Bondi has been a vocal critic of the criminal cases brought against Trump, including federal charges filed by Special Counsel Jack Smith.
“She will bring accountability back to the DOJ and restore Americans’ faith in its mission,” Trump wrote.
If confirmed, Bondi will oversee the Justice Department’s sprawling operations, which include more than 115,000 employees and an annual budget of roughly $45 billion.
Her responsibilities will extend to implementing Trump’s vision for the department, including targeting political opponents, strengthening border security, and dismantling criminal organizations.
Bondi’s record as Florida Attorney General, her ties to Trump’s inner circle, and her leadership role at the conservative America First Policy Institute have all contributed to her rising prominence within Trump’s orbit.
Meanwhile, questions remain about Gaetz’s political future. Having resigned his House seat shortly after being considered for Attorney General, it is unclear whether he will seek to regain his position or pivot to another role in Trump’s administration.
Gaetz, however, voiced his support for Bondi, calling her “a stellar selection” and “a proven litigator who will bring needed reforms to the Justice Department.”
