Trump picks Pam Bondi for U.S. attorney general After Gaetz withdrawal
Former President Donald Trump has selected Pam Bondi, the former Florida Attorney General, to serve as the next U.S. Attorney General. The announcement comes just days after Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) withdrew his candidacy for the position, citing personal and political reasons.
Bondi, a long-time ally of Trump, has garnered national attention for her role in Florida’s legal and political landscape. She previously served as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, where she became known for her conservative stances on issues ranging from immigration to consumer protection. Bondi also played a key role in defending Trump during the investigation into his alleged ties with Russia, earning her a spot in the former president’s inner circle.
Trump’s decision to tap Bondi for the post comes as no surprise to many, given their close working relationship over the years. “Pam has been a tremendous ally, and I know she will bring the same level of dedication and toughness to the Department of Justice as she did in Florida,” Trump said in a statement. “She will be an excellent Attorney General for the American people.”
Bondi’s selection follows a series of setbacks in Trump’s search for a new Attorney General. Earlier this week, Representative Matt Gaetz, a staunch supporter of the former president, had been considered a front-runner for the role. However, Gaetz announced his withdrawal from consideration, citing the complexities of balancing his responsibilities in Congress with the demands of such a high-profile position.
“I have decided to remain focused on my work in Congress, where I can continue to serve my constituents and advocate for the values we hold dear,” Gaetz said in a statement. “I look forward to supporting President Trump in any way I can as he continues to make America great.”
Bondi’s nomination is expected to face scrutiny from Democrats, many of whom have criticized her past decisions and her connections to Trump. As Florida’s Attorney General, Bondi was involved in several controversial legal battles, including the state’s decision not to join a lawsuit against Trump University in 2016, a move that raised questions about her ties to Trump’s organization.
Despite potential opposition, Bondi’s confirmation is likely to be bolstered by support from Republicans, especially those in the Trump-friendly wing of the party. If confirmed, she would become the first woman to serve as Attorney General under a Trump administration.
Political analysts suggest that Bondi’s appointment could signal a shift in the Department of Justice’s approach to key issues like federal investigations into Trump’s business dealings, ongoing investigations into election-related activities, and enforcement of immigration policies.
