Who is Pam Bondi, the fierce Trump loyalist who replaces Gaetz for AG?

Pam Bondi, 59, was recently announced as Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general following the withdrawal of Rep. Matt Gaetz. Bondi is known for her fierce loyalty to Trump and has played a prominent role in his political environment for years. She once said at a campaign rally, “Donald Trump is a friend,” firmly cementing her alignment with his agenda.

As Florida’s attorney general, Bondi gained national recognition for her outspoken defense of conservative values. In 2016, she endorsed Trump over Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, making her loyalty clear. At the Republican National Convention, she joined the chants of “Lock her up” against Hillary Clinton, famously saying “I love that.”

Bondi played a key role during Trump’s first impeachment, which focused on allegations of withholding military aid to pressure Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden. She drew attention to Hunter Biden and questioned his lucrative position on the board of a Ukrainian energy company. Her efforts were praised by Trump supporters for staunchly defending the president.

During the contentious 2020 election, Bondi supported Trump’s claims of voter fraud. At a November 4 press conference, she stood next to Rudy Giuliani and declared, “We won Pennsylvania and we want every vote to be counted fairly,” despite the lack of evidence for the claim. California Rep. Adam Schiff criticized her as “one of the election deniers” who perpetuated disinformation.

Pam Bondi’s career has not been without controversy. In 2017, she branded OJ Simpson a “mocking law” when he tried to move to Florida after his parole. Simpson’s attorney Malcolm Lavergne responded harshly, calling her comments an attempt to “gain political favor.” Years later, Lavergne softened his stance, saying, “I hope she takes her position very seriously… I wish her the best.”

Bondi’s tenure as Florida AG also faced criticism from Trump University. Critics questioned her decision not to join a multi-state lawsuit against the company after she received a $25,000 donation from Trump. Despite public backlash, Bondi continued to maintain that her decision was appropriate based on the facts of the case.

Bondi has admitted mistakes throughout her career. In 2013, she postponed a state execution to avoid a scheduling conflict with a campaign fundraiser. She later expressed her regret, telling the Tampa Bay Times, “I’m sorry. And it won’t happen again.” This moment highlighted her ability to take responsibility for her actions.

Trump praised Bondi’s unwavering loyalty as he announced her nomination, saying, “Pam will refocus the DOJ on its intended purpose: fighting crime and making America safe again.” Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to better align the Justice Department with Trump’s vision.

Bondi’s ties to Trump extend beyond public appearances. She has a close relationship with Susie Wiles, Trump’s new chief of staff, and both worked at Ballard Partners, a law and lobbying firm with strong Trump connections. These relationships underscore her integral role within Trump’s inner circle.

Despite criticism, Bondi’s legal career spans decades, earning her respect in conservative circles. Former prosecutor Elie Honig noted, “She is unquestionably qualified to be attorney general,” citing her extensive experience as a prosecutor in Florida. Bondi’s rise underlines her resilience and deep ties to the Trump administration.

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