The Senate has confirmed Pam Bondi as the new U.S. attorney general, a significant appointment that places a staunch Trump ally at the helm of the Justice Department. Bondi, a former prosecutor in Tampa and Florida’s attorney general, has close ties to the Trump administration, having represented him during his impeachment trial and led a legal institute founded by ex-Trump officials. Despite prior promotion of election fraud claims and defense of Trump’s legal battles, Bondi assured senators of her independence from political influence in her role as the nation’s top prosecutor.

During her confirmation hearing, Bondi faced scrutiny over her past statements about prosecuting perceived political enemies, asserting a commitment to impartiality and adherence to the law in her prosecutorial decisions. She emphasized tackling issues like gangs, drugs, cartels, border security, and foreign threats as her priorities in office, pledging to uphold justice and integrity within the Department of Justice.

Bondi’s nomination followed the withdrawal of former Rep. Matt Gaetz, Trump’s initial pick for the role, who resigned from Congress amid allegations of sexual misconduct and drug-related misconduct. Bondi’s confirmation, supported by all Republicans and one Democrat, marks a pivotal moment as she assumes leadership over the vast network of agencies within the Justice Department, including the FBI.