The Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as the new Attorney General of the United States on Tuesday evening, with a vote tally of 54-46. Bondi, a former Florida attorney general and prosecutor, is seen as a key nominee for President Donald Trump’s administration. Her confirmation comes amidst heightened scrutiny of the Justice Department and FBI, particularly regarding Trump’s controversial decisions related to the January 6 Capitol riots.
Senator Ted Cruz from Texas expressed strong support for Bondi, describing her as Trump’s most important nominee and praising her performance during the confirmation hearings. Cruz stated his confidence that Bondi would work to remove political motivations from the Justice Department, particularly in investigating issues such as the disappearance of migrant children.
The vote saw a rare moment of bipartisanship, with Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, breaking party lines to support Bondi’s nomination. This collaboration underscores the mixed sentiments surrounding her appointment, as both Republicans and some Democrats acknowledged her qualifications and experience.
Bondi’s confirmation arrives at a time when the Justice Department faces allegations of politicization. Critics have raised concerns over Trump’s pardons of individuals involved in the January 6 events and the dismissal of several inspectors general. In response to these issues, Bondi has reiterated her commitment to depoliticizing the department, stating that her role will not be used to push any political agenda.
During her confirmation hearings, Bondi received praise for her ability to handle tough questions from senators, demonstrating her experience and readiness for the role. She has been endorsed by over 110 former senior Justice Department officials, including past attorneys general, who commended her as a consensus builder with a solid prosecutorial background.
In her remarks, Bondi emphasized the need to focus on effective law enforcement rather than political considerations. She has vowed to address pressing issues such as drug trafficking and the opioid crisis, drawing from her previous work in Florida, where she was recognized for her efforts to combat pill mills and improve public safety.
As she steps into her new role, Bondi faces the challenge of restoring confidence in the Justice Department while navigating the political landscape of a divided Congress. Her supporters are hopeful that she will prioritize policy over politics, ensuring that the department serves its foundational purpose of upholding the law fairly and impartially.