Trump most controversial allies: Pam Bondi’s Journey
Pam Bondi, once criticized by Democrats as a threat to democracy due to her loyalty to Donald Trump, is now on track for a surprisingly smooth Senate confirmation as the next U.S. Attorney General. Despite her past efforts to challenge the 2020 election results, Senate Democrats appear to be softening their stance.
Bondi, who is set to undergo two days of confirmation hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee, is expected to face little resistance. This change in tone is partly due to controversies surrounding other nominees and the withdrawal of her controversial predecessor, former Florida GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz.
Bondi has successfully reached out to Senate Democrats, discussing potential collaboration on issues like criminal justice reform and antitrust laws. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) noted a productive meeting with Bondi, praising her experience and direct approach.
While Democrats remain wary of a Trump loyalist leading the Justice Department, they acknowledge Bondi’s qualifications. With a Republican-controlled Senate, Democrats are resigned to the likelihood of her confirmation and are focusing their criticism on Trump himself rather than Bondi’s background.
Bondi’s tenure as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, where she opposed gay marriage and the Affordable Care Act, has raised concerns about her ability to maintain the Department of Justice’s independence. However, some Democrats, like Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), recognize her managerial experience and are open to her confirmation, contrasting her record with more controversial nominees like Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense.
As Bondi’s confirmation hearings approach, Democrats plan to scrutinize her commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the Justice Department remains independent. Despite this, some Democrats, such as Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), have found common ground with Bondi on issues like protecting children online and regulating Big Tech.
The shift in Democratic sentiment towards Bondi’s nomination reflects a broader strategic decision, with Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) suggesting that Trump’s mandate for change is influencing their approach. As Bondi moves closer to confirmation, the focus will remain on her ability to serve as an impartial enforcer of the law amidst a politically charged environment.
