Written by Matthew Collins.
Pam Bondi, Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general, made waves during her confirmation hearing by standing her ground against Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I. In a tense exchange, Bondi turned the tables on Whitehouse when he pressed her about a supposed “enemies list” at the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Whitehouse’s questioning revolved around whether Bondi would tolerate hiring individuals with such a list. Instead of being cornered, Bondi shot back with a direct response, stating that she had never operated with an “enemies list” as Florida’s attorney general. When Whitehouse’s questions continued down the same path, Bondi stopped him in his tracks: “Senator, to cut to the chase, you’re clearly talking about Kash Patel.” Patel, Trump’s nominee for FBI director, became the focus of Whitehouse’s line of questioning, but Bondi defended his qualifications, noting his “great experience” and pointing out that Whitehouse would have his chance to question Patel directly.
A Strong Start: Bondi’s Personal Touch
Bondi opened her hearing by bringing in a personal connection. She introduced her childhood friends in the audience, quipping, “If you want to get dirt on me, these women have known me since I was a child.” It was a calculated move to humanize herself and deflect potential criticism.
Later in the hearing, she highlighted her extensive legal experience, telling Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, that she had personally handled “thousands” of criminal cases, including “hundreds” that went to jury trials. This direct appeal to her credentials underscored her readiness for the role and deflected concerns about her qualifications.
Taking a Stand Against DOJ Weaponization
Bondi didn’t shy away from criticizing the current DOJ under President Joe Biden’s administration. In a pointed exchange with Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, she condemned the DOJ’s alleged targeting of parents, Catholics, and patriotic Americans. Specifically, she promised to end the labeling of parents as “domestic terrorists” for opposing Democrat policies.
When pressed by Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, about whether she would investigate Trump’s political adversaries, Bondi remained firm. “Senator, I certainly have not heard the president say that,” she stated. She went on to express concern that two-thirds of Americans no longer trust the DOJ, attributing this decline to inflammatory rhetoric and politicized actions.
Biden and the 2020 Election: A Strategic Dodge
Perhaps the most contentious moment came when Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., asked Bondi to affirm under oath that Joe Biden “won” the 2020 election. Bondi’s response was both measured and revealing: “I accept, of course, that Joe Biden is the President of the United States.” However, she stopped short of endorsing the fairness of the election, adding that she witnessed irregularities firsthand in Pennsylvania. Her careful wording left Democrats frustrated but avoided making a statement that could alienate Trump’s base.
Our Take
Pam Bondi’s performance at the confirmation hearing showcased her sharp political instincts and ability to navigate a hostile environment. Her refusal to bow to Democrat pressure, combined with her defense of Kash Patel and criticisms of the Biden administration, resonated with conservative values. However, her unwillingness to unequivocally affirm the 2020 election results could deepen the nation’s political divide. By avoiding direct answers, Bondi played to her supporters but missed an opportunity to restore broader trust in the DOJ.
While Bondi’s tough stance might appeal to conservatives, the broader implications of her rhetoric are concerning. Politicizing the DOJ further could erode public confidence in a system that’s supposed to serve justice impartially. In an already polarized nation, America needs leaders who prioritize unity over division.
