Stephen Miller Reportedly Controls DOJ, Pam Bondi Acts Figurehead

Multiple reports reveal that Attorney General Pam Bondi is largely a figurehead at the Department of Justice, with White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, who is not a lawyer, exerting significant control over the department's agenda and operations from the White House. Bondi is described as a surrogate and messenger who cedes decision-making to empowered West Wing players, a notable departure from previous attorney generals who maintained DOJ independence from the presidency. Former DOJ officials, including Elizabeth Oyer, criticize Bondi's role as performative, likening her to an actor following White House directives. Bondi's chief of staff defends close alignment with the White House as necessary to combat what they see as a liberal DOJ staff. Miller has been influential behind the scenes, reportedly shaping policies including immigration enforcement and opposing certain DOJ nominations, while Bondi focuses on media appearances and aligning the department with the administration's messaging. This consolidation of DOJ power within the White House marks an unprecedented shift away from traditional DOJ autonomy under prior administrations.