Trump Nominates Pam Bondi for Attorney General Amidst Gaetz Controversy
November 23, 2024On November 23, 2024, Donald Trump announced the nomination of Pam Bondi as U.S. Attorney General, following Matt Gaetz's withdrawal from consideration amid a federal investigation.
Bondi, who served as Florida's Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, is seen as a traditional pick compared to Gaetz, and her nomination has been generally welcomed within the Justice Department.
At 59 years old, Bondi has been a long-time ally of Trump, having endorsed him in March 2016 and gained national attention for her defense of him during his presidency.
As Florida's first female Attorney General, Bondi focused on significant issues such as human trafficking and challenged federal policies, including the Affordable Care Act.
Trump praised Bondi's nearly 20-year career as a prosecutor, particularly her efforts to combat violent crime and the opioid crisis in Florida.
Since leaving office, Bondi has worked as a lobbyist and remained a staunch supporter of Trump, participating in his impeachment defense and promoting conspiracy theories about election fraud.
Bondi has expressed her intent to hold DOJ officials accountable, stating that 'the bad ones' will be investigated, signaling a potential shift in the department's culture.
If confirmed, she is expected to influence the Justice Department's approach to civil rights, corporate enforcement, and the prosecution of January 6 defendants.
Currently, Bondi chairs the Center for Litigation at the America First Policy Institute, where she focuses on combating what she describes as the 'weaponization' of the Justice Department against political opponents.
Her tenure as Attorney General included controversial actions, such as delaying an execution for campaign fundraising and receiving a $25,000 donation from Trump linked to a fraud investigation involving Trump University.
Former colleagues have described Bondi as both amiable and fiercely competitive, suggesting she will balance loyalty to Trump with fair treatment of DOJ employees.
The Senate must approve Bondi's nomination before she can officially take the position of Attorney General.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
PBS News • Nov 22, 2024
6 things to know about Pam Bondi, Trump's new pick for attorney generalHollywood Life • Nov 23, 2024
Did Pam Bondi Go to Law School? Her Education Explained