Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi has been chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to be the U.S. attorney general after Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. Bondi, a longtime Trump ally, was one of his lawyers during his first impeachment trial. Trump praised Bondi, stating that she will refocus the Department of Justice on fighting crime.
Gaetz, who faced controversy over a federal sex trafficking investigation, decided to step aside, acknowledging that his confirmation was becoming a distraction. This decision came after a turbulent eight-day period in which Trump sought to push through provocative nominations like Gaetz and Pentagon pick Pete Hegseth, who faces sexual assault allegations.
Despite initially considering Gaetz for the role, Trump expressed appreciation for his efforts but noted that he did not want his nomination to be a distraction. Gaetz later stated that he looks forward to continuing the fight to save the country from a different position.
Trump also named personal lawyers Todd Blanche, Emil Bove, and D. John Sauer to senior roles in the Department of Justice, and announced Matt Whitaker as the U.S. ambassador to NATO. Bondi’s appointment comes as Trump aims to establish a strong and efficient DOJ on Day 1 of his administration. Bondi’s selection has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising her experience and loyalty to Trump, while others express concern over her involvement in high-profile cases during his presidency.
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