Trump Sacks U.S. Attorney General, Appoints Former Personal Lawyer

Trump Sacks U.S. Attorney General, Appoints Former Personal Lawyer

United States President Donald Trump has dismissed Attorney General Pam Bondi and appointed his former personal lawyer, Todd Blanche, as acting head of the Department of Justice.

The decision, announced on Thursday via Trump’s Truth Social platform, follows mounting criticism of Bondi’s handling of sensitive legal matters, including the release of files linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In his statement, Trump praised Bondi’s tenure, describing her as “a great American patriot” who had overseen a significant crackdown on crime. He added that she would be moving to a new role in the private sector, with details to be disclosed later.

Bondi, a long-time ally of the president, had come under pressure from sections of Trump’s political base over what they viewed as shortcomings in managing the Epstein-related documents. Her performance in pursuing cases against individuals perceived as political opponents of the president also reportedly drew dissatisfaction.

The shake-up comes amid broader changes within the administration, including the recent removal of Kristi Noem from the Department of Homeland Security.

While Bondi’s exit was welcomed by opposition Democrats, it has further intensified political debate in Washington. Senator Elizabeth Warren criticised her tenure, alleging that the Justice Department had been politicised under her leadership.

Similarly, Senator Mark Warner faulted her handling of the Epstein case, arguing that it had undermined public trust in the justice system.

Blanche, who now steps in as acting attorney general, previously represented Trump in multiple legal battles following his departure from office in 2021. His appointment is seen as a temporary measure pending the nomination of a substantive replacement.

Reports indicate that Lee Zeldin, a former congressman currently leading the Environmental Protection Agency, is being considered for the position.

Bondi’s political career spans nearly two decades in law enforcement and public service. She served as Florida’s attorney general for two terms after her election in 2010 and later joined Trump’s legal defence team during his first impeachment trial, where he faced allegations involving Ukraine and political rival Joe Biden.

Her tenure at the Justice Department was marked by staunch defence of the president, including support for his claims surrounding the 2020 election and public criticism of criminal cases brought against him.

The latest development signals another shift in the leadership of the Justice Department as the administration navigates ongoing political and legal challenges.