In a significant development in Washington, D.C., Pam Bondi has been sworn in as the United States Attorney General on February 5, 2025. The ceremony took place in the Oval Office, with Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas administering the oath. President Donald Trump attended the event, praising Bondi’s extensive experience and expressing confidence in her leadership.
Bondi, who previously served as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, was confirmed by the Senate with a 54-46 vote. The confirmation saw bipartisan support, with Democratic Senator John Fetterman joining Republicans in favor. During her tenure in Florida, Bondi was recognized for her efforts against human trafficking and opioid abuse.
In her remarks, Bondi emphasized her commitment to restoring integrity within the Justice Department and addressing violent crime nationwide. She stated, “I will make you proud and I will make this country proud. I will restore integrity to the Justice Department and I will fight violent crime throughout this country and throughout this world, and make America safe again.”
However, Bondi’s appointment comes at a tumultuous time for the Justice Department. The department has recently faced internal challenges, including lawsuits from FBI agents concerned about potential political interference in ongoing investigations. Acting Deputy Director Emil Bove has sought to reassure staff, stating that only those who acted with corrupt or partisan intent should be concerned about their positions.
Bondi’s close association with President Trump has raised questions about the potential for political influence within the department. During her confirmation hearings, she assured lawmakers of her commitment to maintaining the department’s independence and avoiding political bias in prosecutorial decisions.
Her appointment follows the withdrawal of Trump’s initial nominee for Attorney General, former Representative Matt Gaetz, who stepped down amid allegations of misconduct. Bondi’s confirmation is part of a broader reshaping of the Justice Department’s leadership under the current administration.
As she assumes her role, Bondi will oversee a department with over 115,000 employees and numerous sub-agencies, including the FBI. Her leadership will be pivotal in navigating the department through its current challenges and in shaping its future direction.
