In a whirlwind of political maneuvering, President Donald Trump is already making waves with his potential cabinet picks and strategic decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments:
Pam Bondi Tapped for Attorney General
- Trump announced that Pam Bondi, former Attorney General of Florida, is his choice for the next U.S. Attorney General.
- He praised her nearly 20-year career as a prosecutor, highlighting her toughness on violent criminals and efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl.
- Trump stated that for too long the Department of Justice (DOJ) has been “weaponized” against him and other Republicans, and that Bondi will refocus the DOJ on fighting crime and ensuring American safety.
- Bondi has been a vocal supporter of Trump, previously appearing in New York during his legal battles, where she criticized the prosecutions as politically motivated. She was a career prosecutor for 18 years and emphasized that a judge should be a neutral arbiter of facts.
FBI Director Rumors Dispelled
- Rumors that Trump was considering Mike Rogers for FBI Director have been firmly denied.
- Dan Scavino, a Trump advisor, stated he spoke directly with Trump, who said he has “never even given it a thought” regarding Rogers for the FBI.
- This news was met with relief by some, as Rogers had previously taken stances on issues like Russia collusion, classified documents, and January 6th that were seen as unfavorable by Trump supporters.
- There was also speculation that Rogers might be appointed with Kash Patel as Deputy, but this also appears to be off the table.
Matt Gates Opts Out of Congress
- Matt Gates has confirmed he will not be returning to Congress.
- He stated he does not intend to take the oath of office for the 119th Congress and will be pursuing other goals, including focusing on his family.
- Gates mentioned he will continue to support Trump and may take on a role within the Trump administration, aiming to strengthen the “durability” of their political movement.
- A special election to fill Gates’s seat is scheduled for April 1st, 2025.
Reactions and Concerns
- Bill Clinton weighed in, suggesting Trump is interested in appointees who are “loyal to him 100% of the time” and that Trump’s supporters have lost confidence in the federal government.
- Adam Schiff expressed concerns, particularly about the Justice Department. He believes Trump views the DOJ as a tool to represent his personal interests and go after adversaries, rather than serving the American people. Schiff specifically questioned how a Bondi-led DOJ would handle cases related to January 6th, given her past statements.
- James Trusty, a former Trump attorney, offered a more nuanced perspective. While acknowledging the historical context of Attorney Generals having close ties to presidents, he emphasized the need for independence and competence. Trusty believes Trump wants an AG willing to “throw a grenade under the tent” and address perceived politicization within the DOJ. He views Bondi’s extensive prosecutorial experience as a positive attribute for the daily, critical functions of the Attorney General.
New York Case Update
- In Trump’s New York legal case, Judge Merchan has officially granted the request to adjourn the November 26th sentencing date.
- This decision came after both Trump’s team and Alvin Bragg’s office agreed that the sentencing could be vacated.
- Trump has been granted leave to file a motion to dismiss by December 2nd, with the prosecution’s response due by December 9th.
- This development is seen as a significant win for Trump, pushing back the sentencing that many observers had anticipated would proceed as scheduled.
Stay tuned for more updates as the political landscape continues to evolve!
