Pam Bondi Confirmed as U.S. Attorney General in GOP-Led Senate Vote

The U.S. Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as attorney general in a 54-46 vote, solidifying President Donald Trump’s influence over the Justice Department. Bondi, a former Florida attorney general and longtime Trump ally, secured backing from all 53 Republicans and Democratic Senator John Fetterman.

Her confirmation follows sweeping cuts to prosecutors and FBI agents involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot investigation. Bondi assured lawmakers she would uphold the Justice Department’s independence, though concerns remain over her willingness to resist potential political interference, especially after the removal of prosecutors who pursued charges against Trump.

Trump, who took office on Jan. 20, signed an executive order condemning the "weaponization" of federal law enforcement and directing the attorney general to review enforcement activities. Bondi has previously defended Trump, notably during his first impeachment trial, and has echoed unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election. Financial disclosures reveal she holds a stake in Trump’s media company, Trump Media and Technology Group.

Trump’s first attorney general pick, former Representative Matt Gaetz, withdrew after a House ethics report accused him of paying for sex and drugs and obstructing Congress. Meanwhile, the Senate advanced two other controversial Trump nominees—Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for health secretary and Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence.

Bondi’s appointment further cements Trump’s control over key government agencies amid growing scrutiny of his administration’s legal and political maneuvers.