President Trump has announced a major leadership change at the Department of Justice, confirming that Attorney General Pam Bondi will depart her post to transition into a new role in the private sector. The move follows a Wednesday night meeting in the Oval Office, held just before the President’s address on the conflict in Iran.
In a statement released Thursday, the President praised Bondi’s tenure, calling her a “Great American Patriot” and a “loyal friend” who served for the past year.
Trump specifically highlighted her efforts in law enforcement, stating she oversaw a significant reduction in crime and that murders reached their lowest level since 1900 under her watch.
“We love Pam,” the President added, noting that her new private-sector position would be announced in the near future.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has been tapped to serve as Acting Attorney General. A former defense attorney and current high-ranking official within the department, Blanche was described by the President as a “very talented and respected Legal Mind.”
READ: Florida Death Row Inmate Challenges ‘Secrecy’ Of Lethal Injection In Supreme Court Appeal
Blanche issued his own statement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and acknowledging his predecessor’s work.
“Pam Bondi led this Department with strength and conviction and I’m grateful for her leadership and friendship,” Blanche said. He pledged to maintain the department’s current direction, stating, “We will continue backing the blue, enforcing the law, and doing everything in our power to keep America safe.”
While reports had circulated earlier in the week regarding a potential permanent replacement, the administration has focused its official transition on Blanche’s acting role as the department enters this new chapter.
Current EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin is being considered as a potential replacement for the Attorney General position, according to sources.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
