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At Trump’s Justice Dept., Bondi Embraces Role of TV Messenger

The New York Times's profile
The New York Times
6h ago

Attorney General Pam Bondi has taken a performative approach in her role, aligning closely with President Trump's directives and prioritizing cases that appeal to his base, even when they lack substantial outcomes, as seen with the 'Epstein Files'. Her tenure marks a significant departure from her predecessors, focusing on loyalty and image management over institutional independence. Despite criticism from both the left and some on the right, Bondi remains in ideological alignment with Trump, evident in her support of his policies and personal allies like Elon Musk. Bondi's approach includes tightly controlled public appearances and frequent media engagements, particularly on Fox News, to cultivate a specific public image. Internally, her actions have led to reshuffling within the Justice Department, aligning it more closely with the political agenda of the Trump administration, often at the expense of career officials and established protocols.

At Trump’s Justice Dept., Bondi Embraces Role of TV Messenger

Context:

Attorney General Pam Bondi has taken a performative approach in her role, aligning closely with President Trump's directives and prioritizing cases that appeal to his base, even when they lack substantial outcomes, as seen with the 'Epstein Files'. Her tenure marks a significant departure from her predecessors, focusing on loyalty and image management over institutional independence. Despite criticism from both the left and some on the right, Bondi remains in ideological alignment with Trump, evident in her support of his policies and personal allies like Elon Musk. Bondi's approach includes tightly controlled public appearances and frequent media engagements, particularly on Fox News, to cultivate a specific public image. Internally, her actions have led to reshuffling within the Justice Department, aligning it more closely with the political agenda of the Trump administration, often at the expense of career officials and established protocols.

Dive Deeper:

  • Pam Bondi, as Attorney General, has adopted a strategy that closely follows President Trump's directives, focusing on cases that appeal to his base, such as the 'Epstein Files', despite their lack of substantial revelations.

  • Bondi's approach contrasts sharply with her predecessors at the Justice Department, as she emphasizes loyalty and image over the department's traditional role of maintaining independence from the presidency.

  • Her tenure has been marked by aligning the Justice Department's actions with Trump's policies, including controversial moves like accepting a luxury plane from the Qatari royal family and shifting the focus of civil rights investigations.

  • Bondi's public persona is carefully crafted through controlled appearances and frequent engagements on Fox News, where she balances political attacks with maintaining a friendly demeanor.

  • Internally, Bondi has overseen significant changes, including demotions and dismissals of career officials, to align the department more closely with Trump's political agenda, often leading to tensions and resignations within the workforce.

  • Despite criticism from both political spectrums, Bondi remains a favored figure within Trump's circle, aligning with his policies and defending allies, such as Elon Musk, with vigor.

  • The Justice Department under Bondi has seen a shift towards a more politically driven agenda, with close coordination with the White House and a focus on issues that resonate with Trump's base, while de-emphasizing traditional priorities like white-collar crime and public corruption.

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