On Tuesday, February 5, 2025, the U.S. Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as the new U.S. Attorney General by a 54-46 vote, with strong backing from Republican senators.
Bondi, a former Florida Attorney General, has spent 18 years as a prosecutor and is now tasked with overseeing the country’s legal landscape.
Bondi’s confirmation comes after the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced her nomination last Wednesday. As Florida’s first female attorney general, Bondi made a name for herself with her tough stance on crime and legal issues. She previously chaired the Center for Litigation and co-chaired the Center for Law and Justice at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI).
In addition to her extensive legal career, Bondi served on President Donald Trump’s Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission, where she focused on prevention, interdiction, and treatment. Her confirmation is seen by supporters as a victory for the rule of law, with Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) commending her dedication to justice.
“Pam Bondi’s confirmation is a victory for the rule of law and a promise that safer days are ahead,” Grassley stated. “Ms. Bondi is a career prosecutor who’s dedicated her professional career to pursuing justice. I expect her to take the same tough, unbiased approach as U.S. Attorney General.”
Democratic Concerns and Trump Allegiances
While the confirmation was welcomed by many, it has sparked concerns among Democratic lawmakers. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) sent a letter questioning Bondi’s potential bias due to her close ties with President Donald Trump. Durbin pointed to Bondi’s role in Trump’s defense during the 2019 impeachment trial and her refusal to acknowledge that Trump lost the 2020 presidential election.
Of particular concern to Democrats are Bondi’s actions regarding the recent dismissal of FBI investigators and DOJ prosecutors involved in the prosecution of individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Durbin has requested the production of related materials no later than this Friday.
Background and Next Steps
Bondi’s nomination was made by Trump in November, following the sudden withdrawal of former congressman Matt Gaetz.
With her confirmation now secured, Bondi is poised to take over the role of U.S. Attorney General, overseeing national legal policy and working on major investigations and prosecutions.
