President Donald Trump has removed Pam Bondi from her position as Attorney General, ending a period of contention within the Justice Department. The departure follows reported frustrations with Bondi’s leadership and specifically, her handling of investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
Bondi, a long-standing Trump loyalist and former Florida attorney general, faced criticism regarding politically motivated prosecutions and the Epstein case. Discussions about her replacement reportedly included consideration of Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Todd Blanche, Trump’s former personal attorney, will serve as interim Attorney General. Trump praised Bondi as a “Great American Patriot and a loyal friend,” stating she will transition to a role in the private sector. She is the second Cabinet member removed during Trump’s second term.