US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated veteran prosecutor Pam Bondi as his choice for attorney general, just hours after Congressman Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration for the high-profile role.
Bondi, a long-time ally of Trump, has an extensive background in law enforcement, having served as Florida’s attorney general for multiple terms. Known for her tough stance on crime, she was a key figure in Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial and also publicly supported him during his hush money trial in New York.
“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 in a social media post announcing her nomination.
Bondi’s relationship with Trump dates back to his 2016 presidential campaign, where she was an outspoken supporter. In 2019, she joined the White House as a legal advisor and defense attorney during Trump’s first impeachment, ultimately helping secure his acquittal. She also served on Trump’s Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission and led the legal team at the America First Policy Institute, a conservative think tank founded by former Trump staffers.
If confirmed by the Senate, Bondi will take on the role of the country’s chief law enforcement officer, overseeing the Justice Department and its 115,000 employees, along with its $45 billion budget. Her responsibilities will include carrying out Trump’s promise to punish political enemies and reform the department, which has faced criticism from the president and his supporters for alleged bias.
Trump has been vocal in his criticism of the criminal cases brought against him and special counsel Jack Smith, who has charged him in two federal cases. In a statement, Trump pledged to “refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting Crime, and Making America Safe Again.”
Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, expressed confidence that Bondi’s nomination would be swiftly confirmed, calling her selection “a grand slam, touchdown, hole in one, ace, hat trick, slam dunk, Olympic gold medal pick.”
Bondi’s nomination comes after Gaetz’s unexpected withdrawal from the race for attorney general, following a scandal involving sexual misconduct allegations. Gaetz, who had been a front-runner for the position, stepped back, citing the distraction the controversy was causing to the incoming administration.
Later, Gaetz congratulated Bondi on her nomination, praising her as a “stellar selection” and a “proven litigator” who would bring necessary reforms to the Justice Department.
It remains unclear whether Gaetz will attempt to reclaim his House seat, which he resigned after being considered for the position. Since his victory in the presidential election, Trump has moved quickly to appoint loyalists to key roles in his administration.
