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Trump Names Pam Bondi as Attorney General Pick Following Gaetz's Withdrawal


 Trump Names Pam Bondi as Attorney General Pick Following Gaetz's Withdrawal

In a swift move following former Rep. Matt Gaetz's withdrawal from consideration, President-elect Donald Trump has named Pam Bondi, former Attorney General of Florida, as his choice for the nation's top law enforcement position. Trump announced the decision on his Truth Social platform Thursday evening, just hours after Gaetz stepped aside.

“For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans—Not anymore,” Trump wrote. “Pam will refocus the DOJ to its intended purpose of fighting crime and making America safe again. I’ve known Pam for many years—she’s smart, tough, and an America First fighter who will do a terrific job as Attorney General!”



Gaetz’s Withdrawal

Gaetz had faced mounting scrutiny over his chances of Senate confirmation, particularly as a House Ethics Committee report on allegations of misconduct loomed. The report, which remains unpublished, details investigations into claims of sexual misconduct and other alleged crimes. Gaetz has denied all allegations and has not been charged.

On Thursday, Trump reportedly told Gaetz he lacked the Senate votes for confirmation, prompting the former congressman to formally withdraw. Gaetz called Bondi’s selection “a stellar choice.”



Bondi Steps In

Bondi, who had been considered for the role prior to Gaetz’s nomination, quickly emerged as the frontrunner after his withdrawal. Trump met with Bondi at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday to finalize the decision. Her close ties to Trump’s inner circle, including incoming Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and legal advisor Boris Epshteyn, are seen as key factors in her selection.

Bondi’s background as Florida’s Attorney General and her long-standing support of Trump’s policies make her a strong candidate for Senate approval. Transition team insiders expressed relief, noting that Bondi’s confirmation prospects are considerably better than Gaetz’s.



A Familiar Ally

Bondi has been a prominent Trump ally for years. She defended him during his first impeachment trial and currently chairs the Center for Litigation at the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute. Her history includes both high-profile legal victories and controversies.

As Florida Attorney General, Bondi gained national attention for her efforts to overturn the Affordable Care Act and her defense of the state’s ban on gay marriage, which drew criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. Bondi argued that she was simply upholding the state constitution.

Bondi’s political career has not been without controversy. She faced allegations of receiving a $25,000 contribution from Trump’s foundation in 2014 while declining to investigate Trump University fraud claims. A Florida ethics panel ultimately cleared her of wrongdoing.



Legal Experience and Advocacy

A seasoned litigator, Bondi served as Florida’s top prosecutor for eight years, during which she cultivated a reputation for being media-savvy and highly partisan. Since leaving office, she has worked with Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm with close ties to Trump, and represented Qatar under the Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Bondi has also remained active in legal battles aligned with Trump’s interests, including a recent amicus brief challenging the legality of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s appointment in the classified documents case against Trump.



Senate Confirmation

Bondi’s nomination will require Senate approval, and early indications suggest she may face a smoother path than her predecessor nominee. Trump’s allies have expressed optimism, with one calling her “a solid choice” with strong credentials and established relationships on Capitol Hill.

Pam Bondi’s history as a loyal Trump supporter and her legal expertise position her as a key figure in reshaping the Department of Justice under Trump’s administration.

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