Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi Faces Senate Judiciary Committee Scrutiny on DOJ Oversight

Attorney General Pam Bondi testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee amidst intense scrutiny over the Justice Department's aggressive pursuit of President Donald Trump's political opponents and controversial actions, including deploying federal law enforcement to Democratic-run cities and investigating figures like former FBI Director James Comey. Bondi defended her record, asserting that the DOJ has never ignored court orders despite facing unprecedented judicial activism and numerous legal challenges since January 20, and highlighted historic victories at the Supreme Court. However, Democrats criticized her leadership, highlighting the erosion of traditional DOJ independence, the mass departure of career staff, and accusations that the department has become politicized under her tenure. Bondi, who was confirmed in February after originally being a substitute nominee, has been central to Trump's efforts to reshape the Justice Department, pushing a hardline agenda that critics argue weaponizes the DOJ against political adversaries. The Justice Department's handling of sensitive investigations, including those related to Jeffrey Epstein, further fueled concerns about politicization and transparency. This hearing marked Bondi's first oversight appearance since taking office, setting the stage for a contentious examination of the DOJ's direction under the Trump administration.