The U.S. Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as Attorney General on Tuesday, placing a close ally of President Donald Trump at the helm of a Justice Department already in upheaval following the removal of career officials deemed disloyal to the president.
The 54-46 vote largely followed party lines, with Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania being the only Democrat to support Bondi’s confirmation.
A former Florida Attorney General and corporate lobbyist, Bondi is expected to overhaul the Justice Department, which has been a frequent target of Trump’s criticism due to investigations that led to his two indictments.
Her appointment also comes as the FBI—an agency under her jurisdiction—faces scrutiny over its handling of cases related to Trump.
Republicans welcomed Bondi’s appointment, touting her experience and commitment to the department’s fundamental mission.
“Pam Bondi has promised to get the department back to its core mission: prosecuting crime and protecting Americans from threats to their safety and their freedoms,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
However, Democrats have voiced deep concerns over Bondi’s close ties to Trump. During his first term, Trump fired an FBI director who refused to pledge loyalty and forced out an Attorney General who recused himself from the Russia investigation.
During her confirmation hearing, Bondi reassured lawmakers that her decisions would not be politically motivated. However, she refused to rule out potential investigations into Trump’s political opponents.
She also echoed Trump’s claims that the Justice Department had been “weaponized” against him, stating:
“They targeted Donald Trump… starting back in 2016, they targeted his campaign. They have launched countless investigations against him. If I am Attorney General, I will not politicize that office.”
Her remarks intensified concerns among Democrats, who fear she may prioritize Trump’s interests over impartial justice.
Senator Peter Welch of Vermont criticized her stance, arguing:
“That clearly is a loyalty oath to him as opposed to a demand for straightforward, candid advice, including if the president is asking for something to be done like the prosecution of a political adversary.”
With Bondi now leading the Justice Department, all eyes will be on how she manages ongoing investigations and whether she shields Trump from legal scrutiny or takes action against his political opponents. Her tenure is expected to set the tone for the department as it navigates one of the most politically charged periods in U.S. history.