
Pam Bondi, nominated to serve as attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump, engaged in a fiery exchange with Senator Mazie Hirono during her confirmation hearing on Wednesday. The questioning, focused on Bondi’s potential independence from the White House, sparked sharp debate and drew attention across the political spectrum.
Hirono opened her questioning by referencing a statement attributed to Trump, asserting that he views the Department of Justice as his personal law firm. “I ask you this: If President-elect Trump asks, suggests, or hints that you as attorney general should investigate one of his perceived political enemies, would you do so?” Hirono pressed.
Common @PamBondi W ???? pic.twitter.com/NyWaOJqLad
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) January 15, 2025
Bondi responded by emphasizing the importance of the attorney general’s independence and criticized Hirono for not meeting with her ahead of the hearing. “Sen. Hirono, I wish you had met with me. Had you met with me, we could have discussed many things,” Bondi began, only to be interrupted. Hirono interjected, “I am listening to you now. Could you please respond to the question?”
WATCH: Pam Bondi completely DESTROYS Adam Schiff, a man who disgraces any government door he darkens.
This is a masterclass on dealing with a pompous, slimy, show trail politician. Bravo, Pam Bondi. pic.twitter.com/8iugTaS8ko
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) January 15, 2025
The tense exchange continued as Hirono reiterated her concerns about the Justice Department’s perceived partisanship. Bondi countered by expressing concern over public mistrust in the DOJ. “Two-thirds of Americans have lost faith in the Department of Justice, and it’s statements like that, I believe, that make people continue to lose faith,” Bondi said, pushing back against Hirono’s line of questioning.
Pam Bondi is ON FIRE!
“Senator, I'm here to answer your questions, not do your homework and study for you.” pic.twitter.com/buvm8eLwrh
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) January 15, 2025
Bondi’s remarks gained traction on social media, with many conservatives praising her poise and sharp retorts. “Pam Bondi CLAPS BACK,” Abigail Jackson, communications director for GOP Sen. Josh Hawley, wrote on X. The Media Research Center chimed in, posting, “Pam Bondi isn’t playing with these far-left Senators.”
The exchange also brought broader issues of DOJ independence and accountability into the spotlight. Hirono’s pointed questions reflected concerns about Trump’s approach to the Department of Justice, while Bondi’s responses sought to reassure skeptics of her ability to maintain impartiality as attorney general. Despite the heated nature of the hearing, Bondi’s confident handling of Hirono’s questions solidified her standing among conservative supporters.