During her confirmation hearing on Wednesday, Pam Bondi, Donald Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, assured senators that she would not utilize the U.S. Justice Department to target individuals based on political affiliations.
“There will never be an enemies list within the Department of Justice,” Bondi stated while facing questions regarding her allegiance to Trump. “I will not politicize that office.”
Despite her assurances, Bondi, if confirmed as the nation’s top law enforcement official, refrained from dismissing the prospect of investigating political adversaries of the president-elect.
“It would be irresponsible of me to make a commitment regarding anything,” she remarked when questioned about potential investigations into Jack Smith, who is leading criminal cases against Trump.
Throughout the campaign, Trump frequently hinted at investigating those he viewed as his political opponents. Bondi, likely to gain confirmation as the 87th U.S. Attorney General given the Republican majority, emphasized her commitment to maintaining independence.
However, she supported Trump’s assertion that federal prosecutions against him represented political persecution, claiming the department “has been weaponized for years.”
Senator Chuck Grassley, also a Republican, echoed concerns about the department being “infected with political decision-making” under the current administration, particularly against Trump, sentiments Bondi acknowledged.
Democratic senators raised concerns regarding Bondi’s independence and her ability to oppose the president-elect if necessary. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse warned about the potential for justice department weaponization under her leadership, insisting on the importance of independence.
Further questioning involved Kash Patel, the nominee for FBI director, who has mentioned having an “enemies list” of individuals he would pursue if confirmed. Bondi claimed she was unaware of these comments and reiterated that the Justice Department would not maintain such a list.
Addressing further inquiries, Bondi indicated that she would evaluate possible pardons for Capitol rioters on a “case-by-case basis,” while condemning any violence against law enforcement officers.
If confirmed, the attorney general leads the Department of Justice, providing legal guidance to the president and executive departments. A confirmation vote for Bondi is anticipated in the coming days.
Additionally, Senators questioned Marco Rubio, expected to be confirmed as Secretary of State, urging a shift in Washington’s policies to reduce dependency on China and promising an overhaul of U.S. foreign policy focused on national interests.
