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US President-elect Donald Trump has announced veteran prosecutor and former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as his nominee for the position of Attorney General. The decision comes just hours after Representative Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration following days of controversy.
Bondi, 59, is a long-time ally of Trump, known for her staunch defense during his first impeachment trial and active role in his 2016 campaign. Trump praised her as a prosecutor who "made the streets safe for Florida families" during her two decades in law enforcement. Her nomination is expected to face less resistance in the Senate than Gaetz's, with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham predicting a swift confirmation, calling the pick a "grand slam."
If confirmed, Bondi will oversee the Department of Justice (DOJ), managing over 115,000 employees and a $45 billion budget. Her responsibilities would also include implementing Trump's agenda, which prioritizes fighting crime, protecting US borders, and restoring public trust in the DOJ. Trump has repeatedly criticized the department as "weaponized" against him and other Republicans, a sentiment Bondi has echoed in public statements.
Bondi's close ties to Trump date back to his 2016 presidential campaign. She later joined his legal team, defending him during his first impeachment trial and continuing as an advisor during his 2020 election-related legal challenges. More recently, she has led the legal arm of the America First Policy Institute, a conservative think tank.
Gaetz's withdrawal from consideration follows allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use, which he has denied. Announcing his decision, Gaetz stated that the controversy was "unfairly becoming a distraction" to Trump's incoming administration. Despite the setback, Gaetz congratulated Bondi, calling her a "stellar selection."
Bondi's nomination represents another instance of Trump surrounding himself with loyal allies as he shapes his administration. Her confirmation process will likely proceed with significantly less turbulence than her predecessor's candidacy, marking a step forward in the transition.
