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Donald Trump’s attorney general nominee, Pam Bondi, promised to avoid politicizing the Department of Justice (DOJ) but sidestepped questions about investigating Trump’s critics. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Bondi emphasized, “There will never be an enemies list within the DOJ,” while pledging to focus on violent crime, gangs, child abuse, and border security.
Bondi, Florida’s attorney general from 2011 to 2019, played a key role in defending Trump during his 2019 impeachment trial. She criticized Special Counsel Jack Smith’s now-dismissed cases against Trump, calling them an example of DOJ “weaponization.” However, she avoided committing to investigations into Trump’s adversaries, stating it would be “irresponsible” to make such promises.
Democrats expressed concerns over Bondi’s independence, referencing Trump’s campaign vow to target his critics. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse warned against DOJ weaponization, while Republican lawmakers praised Bondi for her intent to restore credibility to the department.
Bondi acknowledged Biden’s 2020 election victory but referenced alleged irregularities in Pennsylvania during her time advocating for Trump’s campaign. She has publicly echoed some of Trump’s claims about election fraud. Regarding pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, Bondi stated she would assess cases individually, aligning with Trump’s plan to pardon some participants.
Bondi also supported Trump’s pick for FBI Director, Kash Patel, despite allegations from Democrats about Patel’s ties to QAnon conspiracy theories. Bondi denied detailed knowledge of the theory and deferred further questions to Patel’s testimony.
Bondi’s nomination is part of Trump’s controversial cabinet selections as he prepares to retake office. Republicans remain confident in her ability to restore trust in the DOJ, while Democrats question her independence.
