FBI agents’ association ‘optimistic’ about AG Bondi despite early controversy with Trump administration
The head of the FBI Agents Association (FBIAA), Nicole Campa, recently expressed cautious optimism about newly appointed U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s ability to bring stability to the Department of Justice (DOJ) following a tumultuous period since President Donald Trump assumed office.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Campa stated that she is eager to see if Bondi will follow through on her promise to put an end to the political weaponization within the FBI and the Justice Department. Campa believes that Bondi’s leadership could help alleviate some of the pressure that agents have been facing in recent weeks, including the firing and forced departures of personnel, as well as a questionnaire that required agents to disclose their roles in the Jan. 6 investigation.
Campa specifically highlighted Bondi’s commitment to not targeting Trump opponents or creating “enemies lists” as a promising step forward. She expressed optimism about Bondi’s statements and her pledge to ensure that individuals are not penalized for simply performing their duties. Despite this, Campa acknowledged the lingering concerns about compiling lists and the potential release of agents’ names.
The FBIAA, which represents more than 14,000 active and retired FBI special agents, recently joined forces with nine anonymous FBI employees in a lawsuit against the Justice Department. The lawsuit seeks to prevent the disclosure of records related to agents involved in the Jan. 6 investigation, citing fears of internal repercussions, threats, or retaliation against the agents or their families if their identities are revealed.
The recent turmoil within the DOJ and the FBI, including firings, forced resignations, retirements, and the detailed questionnaire sent to agents, has unsettled rank-and-file employees. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove attempted to allay agents’ concerns by clarifying that the review of agents’ roles in the Jan. 6 investigation was not intended to lead to mass terminations.
Campa emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in the handling of the Jan. 6 investigations. She stressed the importance of protecting agents’ identities and ensuring that any personnel actions are carried out in a thorough and equitable manner. Campa also underscored the potential long-term consequences of losing experienced agents, noting that the recruitment and training process for FBI agents is extensive and time-consuming.
Ultimately, Campa expressed hope that the installation of permanent leadership at the DOJ and FBI, along with a commitment to a fair review process for the Jan. 6 investigations, will help address the current controversies. She highlighted the importance of preserving agents’ privacy and ensuring that the review is conducted with integrity and accountability.
As the FBIAA continues to advocate for the interests of FBI agents, Campa remains optimistic that Bondi’s tenure as Attorney General will bring much-needed stability and clarity to the Department of Justice.