President-elect Donald Trump nominated Pam Bondi on Thursday as the U.S. Attorney General after Matt Gaetz withdrew his candidacy amid sexual misconduct allegations. Gaetz’s exit marked a significant setback for Trump, signaling the limits of his power, even as he prepares to reclaim the White House with Republican control of both chambers of Congress.
Bondi’s Appointment and Trump’s Statement
Bondi, 59, a former Florida Attorney General, has been a staunch ally of Trump. She was part of his legal team during the first impeachment trial, where Trump was accused of pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to dig up dirt on Joe Biden. Bondi, who also served as a surrogate during the 2024 campaign, has been vocal in her efforts to discredit the legitimacy of vote counting in Pennsylvania during the 2020 election.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his approval of Bondi’s nomination, stating, “For too long, the partisan Department of Justice has been weaponized against me and other Republicans — Not anymore.” He added that Bondi would refocus the DOJ on fighting crime and ensuring safety, praising her as “smart and tough” and a fighter for “AMERICA FIRST.”
Trump’s Other Unconventional Appointments
Bondi’s nomination is part of a string of unconventional picks by Trump, including Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary, vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health Secretary, and Elon Musk to head a government cost-cutting unit. These selections have stirred controversy but reflect Trump’s continued push to place loyal allies in key roles.
Gaetz’s Withdrawal and Ethics Probe
Gaetz’s withdrawal came amid ongoing allegations of sexual misconduct and other unethical behavior, including claims of sexual contact with a 17-year-old girl, drug use, and misappropriating campaign funds. Gaetz has denied the allegations. In a statement, he said, “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition.”
The ethics investigation into Gaetz, a controversial Florida congressman, essentially ended when he resigned from the House of Representatives after Trump picked him for Attorney General.
Also Read: US: Matt Gaetz Withdraws Candidacy For Attorney General Role
A Polarizing Figure
Gaetz, known for his disruptive political style, drew the ire of many House colleagues, notably orchestrating the ouster of fellow Republican Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House last year. His confirmation as Attorney General was deemed unlikely due to a lack of support from fellow Republicans.
Hegseth’s Sexual Assault Investigation
The turmoil continued as new details emerged about Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth. He was investigated for sexual assault after a complaint from an unnamed woman at a 2017 California conference. Although the investigation was closed without charges, the incident added to the controversy surrounding Trump’s picks.
Trump’s transition into the White House continues to be marred by controversies and resignations, with key allies facing scrutiny. The withdrawal of Matt Gaetz, in particular, raises questions about Trump’s influence and the challenges he may face in filling crucial cabinet positions ahead of his inauguration on January 20.
