‘Excuse me’: Bondi shuts down Dem senator’s questioning attacking another Trump nominee
U.S. Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi faced off against a senior Democratic senator during her confirmation hearing for the Department of Justice (DOJ) leadership position. The clash centered around President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to lead the FBI, Kash Patel, and his controversial past comments.
Senator Richard Blumenthal grilled Bondi about Patel’s suggestion to close down FBI headquarters and create an “enemies list.” Bondi, in defense of Patel, highlighted his career as a prosecutor and public defender with experience in the intelligence community. She emphasized Patel’s commitment to following the law if confirmed to run the FBI.
Blumenthal pressed Bondi to disavow Patel’s comments and ask him to recant them, citing concerns about their impact on fair enforcement and the rule of law. Another Democratic senator, Sheldon Whitehouse, raised issues about Patel’s alleged “enemies list” in his book, “Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy.”
Bondi stood by Patel, assuring that there would never be an “enemies list” at the DOJ under her leadership. The contentious exchanges underscored the intense scrutiny facing Trump’s nominees as he pushes for their confirmation in the Senate.
The confirmation hearing revealed deep divisions between Democrats and Republicans over key appointments in the incoming administration. Bondi’s responses reflected her commitment to upholding the law and ensuring integrity within the DOJ if confirmed as Attorney General.
The heated debate between Bondi and Democratic senators highlighted the challenges of navigating partisan politics in the confirmation process. As the Senate deliberates on Trump’s nominees, the clash serves as a preview of the contentious battles ahead in the new administration.
Elizabeth Elkind is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, covering the House of Representatives. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind for the latest updates and insights on political developments. For tips and inquiries, reach out to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.
