President Donald Trump has removed Pam Bondi as attorney general after months of growing frustration behind the scenes and backlash over her department’s handling of the Epstein files.
Trump announced the move Thursday, saying Bondi would leave the administration and move into “a much-needed and important new job in the private sector.” He also revealed that Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche will serve as acting attorney general for now.
“Pam Bondi is a Great American Patriot and a loyal friend,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Pam did a tremendous job.”
Despite the public praise, sources told CNN that Trump had become increasingly unhappy with Bondi’s performance. Among the issues were her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation and the administration’s push to exact his revenge on Trump’s political rivals.
Bondi had reportedly been asking allies in recent days whether her position was in danger. Trump then spoke with her personally on Wednesday in what one source described as a “tough” conversation.
After the announcement, Bondi posted her own message on X.
“Leading President Trump’s historic and highly successful efforts to make America safer and more secure has been the honor of a lifetime,” she wrote.
Sources said Trump is reportedly considering several possible replacements, including Lee Zeldin.
