President-elect Donald Trump announced on Thursday evening his intention to nominate Pam Bondi, the former Attorney General of Florida, as his pick for U.S. attorney general. This announcement follows the withdrawal of former Congressman Matt Gaetz from consideration earlier in the day due to significant opposition from Republican senators amid allegations related to substance use and misconduct.
Trump praised Bondi’s extensive experience in law enforcement, highlighting her nearly 20 years as a prosecutor and her tenure as Florida’s first female Attorney General. He emphasized her commitment to combating violent crime and addressing the opioid crisis, referencing her efforts to reduce fatalities from fentanyl overdoses. “Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on Violent Criminals… She did such an incredible job that I asked her to serve on our Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission during my first Term — We saved many lives!” Trump stated, reaffirming his goals to refocus the Department of Justice on crime prevention and ensuring safety.
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham expressed strong support for Bondi’s nomination, calling it a remarkable choice that he believes will lead to a swift confirmation due to her qualifications.
If confirmed, Bondi would join Janet Reno and Loretta E. Lynch as only the third woman to hold the attorney general position and the first under a Republican administration. Her longstanding relationship with Trump includes leading chants against Hillary Clinton during the 2016 Republican National Convention, representing Trump during his first impeachment trial, and supporting his claims of election fraud in 2020.
Bondi graduated from the University of Florida and earned her law degree from Stetson Law School, becoming a member of the Florida bar in 1991. Additionally, she is registered as a lobbyist in Washington, D.C., representing various law enforcement organizations.
Responses to her nomination have been mixed, with the Florida Democratic Party criticizing her past actions against the Affordable Care Act. State party Chair Nikki Fried remarked that while Americans were fortunate to avoid Gaetz, Bondi’s nomination presents no better alternative, highlighting her efforts to challenge the landmark health care law and its protections.
This nomination reflects Trump’s focus on appointing individuals who align closely with his administration’s goals and perspectives. The emphasis on crime prevention and drug abuse is significant amidst ongoing national discussions about public safety and health concerns, potentially indicating a continued tough stance on these issues with Bondi leading the Department of Justice.
As the process unfolds, the anticipation surrounding Bondi’s confirmation adds another layer to the dynamic political landscape, where her past and viewpoints will be closely examined by both supporters and critics alike.