Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee today for her confirmation hearing to become the 87th Attorney General of the United States. Bondi, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump, delivered a heartfelt opening statement emphasizing her commitment to public safety, criminal justice reform, and restoring trust in the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Bondi began her remarks by expressing gratitude to her family, friends, and colleagues who supported her journey. “I would not be here without my family,” she said, acknowledging the presence of her mother, husband, father-in-law, and numerous relatives and friends. “They’ve traveled a long way to be here, and I deeply appreciate their unwavering support.”
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Reflecting on her career, Bondi recounted her early days as an intern at the State Attorney’s Office in Tampa, Florida, which set the foundation for her passion for public service. “From the moment I interned, all I wanted to do was be a prosecutor,” Bondi said. She detailed her rise from handling DUI and domestic violence cases to serving as a lead trial attorney and, ultimately, Florida’s Attorney General for two terms.
Bondi highlighted key accomplishments during her tenure, including tackling the opioid epidemic, combating human trafficking, and reducing violent crime in Florida. She noted that Florida experienced a 26% reduction in overall crime during her time in office, including nearly a 20% drop in violent crime.
On the opioid crisis, Bondi recalled Florida’s pivotal role in shutting down “pill mills” and enacting tougher legislation. “Kids were dropping dead every day,” she said. “We fought for tough legislation, and after that, none of those opioid dealers or doctors practiced in Florida.”
Bondi also emphasized her work to combat human trafficking by raising awareness, providing critical resources, and establishing safe houses for victims. On the consumer protection front, she spearheaded efforts against price gouging during hurricanes and addressed off-label prescription marketing.
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If confirmed, Bondi pledged to focus the DOJ on its core mission of ensuring public safety and prosecuting criminals. She outlined a comprehensive agenda targeting gangs, drug cartels, terrorism, border security, and foreign adversaries.
“Making America safe again also requires reducing recidivism,” Bondi stated, stressing the need for reforms within the Bureau of Prisons. She praised President Trump’s leadership on criminal justice reform through the First Step Act and committed to building on its successes. “We must reach across the aisle and find solutions to fix these systemic issues.”
Bondi also promised to eliminate partisanship and restore integrity within the DOJ. “The weaponization of the DOJ will be gone,” she declared. “America will have one tier of justice for all.”
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Bondi assured the committee of her dedication to working with federal, state, and local officials, as well as with members of Congress from both parties. “I will collaborate closely with this committee and partner with officials across our great country,” she said.
Concluding her statement, Bondi underscored her commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. “If confirmed, I will fight every day to restore confidence and integrity to the Department of Justice,” she said. “It will be my great responsibility to make America safe again.”
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