In a significant reshuffle within his cabinet plans, President-elect Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General, will be his nominee for U.S. attorney general. This announcement followed the withdrawal of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) from consideration earlier the same day.
Trump made the announcement through a series of posts on Truth Social, where he praised Bondi’s extensive experience as a prosecutor and her accomplishments during her tenure as Florida’s first female attorney general.
“I am proud to announce former Attorney General of the Great State of Florida, Pam Bondi, as our next Attorney General of the United States,” Trump wrote. “Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on violent criminals and made the streets safe for Florida families.”
Bondi served as Florida’s attorney general from 2011 to 2019, where she gained national recognition for her focus on combating human trafficking, tackling the opioid crisis, and reducing fentanyl-related overdose deaths. Trump underscored her role in these efforts, highlighting her instrumental work in saving lives through proactive law enforcement and public health initiatives.
“She did such an incredible job that I asked her to serve on our Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission during my first term,” Trump wrote. “We saved many lives!”
Bondi’s leadership during the opioid crisis earned widespread praise for its emphasis on both enforcement and prevention. Her work on reducing fentanyl-related deaths is expected to be a focal point of her agenda at the Department of Justice (DOJ).
In his announcement, Trump also outlined his broader goals for the DOJ under Bondi’s leadership, emphasizing a return to the department’s foundational mission of fighting crime and ensuring public safety.
“For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans — Not anymore,” Trump stated. “Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting crime and making America safe again.”
Bondi’s nomination signals Trump’s commitment to overhauling the DOJ, a pledge he made during his campaign. Bondi is expected to lead reforms aimed at addressing violent crime, combating drug trafficking, and depoliticizing the department’s operations.
Bondi’s nomination came after Rep. Matt Gaetz, Trump’s initial pick for attorney general, withdrew from consideration earlier in the day. Gaetz faced criticism related to a House Ethics Committee investigation, which raised concerns about his potential confirmation.
In a statement posted on social media, Gaetz explained his decision to step aside:
“I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback – and the incredible support of so many. While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition.”
Gaetz also wished Bondi and Trump well, stating, “There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle.”
Bondi’s relationship with Trump dates back to his first term, during which she served on the Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission. Her work on the commission was praised for its focus on actionable solutions to the opioid crisis, including efforts to curtail the spread of synthetic drugs like fentanyl.
Throughout Trump’s presidency, Bondi was a vocal supporter of his policies, and her nomination reflects his trust in her ability to implement his vision for the DOJ.
If confirmed by the Senate, Bondi will succeed Merrick Garland, ushering in a significant shift in leadership and policy direction at the DOJ. Her priorities are expected to include a strong focus on law enforcement reform, bolstering public safety, and addressing the nation’s drug epidemic.
However, Bondi’s nomination is likely to face scrutiny from Senate Democrats, who may challenge her previous stances on issues like criminal justice reform and her close ties to Trump. Despite this, her extensive experience and track record make her a strong contender for the role.
Trump’s selection of Pam Bondi as attorney general reflects his determination to reshape the DOJ in alignment with his administration’s priorities. With her proven record of tackling complex issues like human trafficking and the opioid crisis, Bondi is poised to bring a results-oriented approach to the department.
Her nomination also underscores Trump’s broader vision for his second term: to prioritize public safety, restore trust in federal institutions, and ensure that the DOJ remains focused on its core mission of upholding the law.
As the Senate confirmation process unfolds, Bondi’s nomination will likely be a defining moment in Trump’s transition to a new administration. For Trump supporters, it marks another step toward fulfilling the promises he made on the campaign trail.
Oh Hell yes.!
I followed her open statements during that Muslim Communist Obama and Communist pedophile Biden.
She’s a great pick and she don’t hold nothing back when it comes to Sedition and Treason against the Communist Democrats and Rinos.
Great pick Mr. President Trump.
Agreed Michael, the new administration is aligning perfectly with the US Constitution and Justice being served for the American Citizens!
God bless soon to be confirmed AG Pam Bondi.
This prayer is offered to the soon anointed DOJ AG Pam Bondi along with all Law Enforcement Officers working with her to protect America.
**”St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.”**