What began as a routine Senate confirmation hearing quickly escalated into a heated exchange between Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi and Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA). The two engaged in a tense back-and-forth that highlighted sharp ideological differences and referenced Schiff’s prior censure by Congress. Bondi, the former Attorney General of Florida, displayed her characteristic assertiveness as she faced pointed questions about presidential pardons, potential investigations, and her ability to handle the responsibilities of the nation’s top law enforcement role.

Schiff, a prominent Democrat and outspoken critic of former President Donald Trump, started the exchange by questioning Bondi about hypothetical scenarios involving presidential pardons. “Will it be your advice to the President: ‘No, Mr. President. I need to go over them on a case-by-case basis. Do not issue blanket pardons,’” Schiff asked, pressing Bondi for specifics on how she would handle this contentious issue.

Remaining composed, Bondi responded, “Senator, I have not looked at any of those files. If confirmed, I will look at the files for the pardons as well as the ongoing investigations.” However, Schiff refused to let the matter rest, questioning whether Bondi could feasibly review hundreds of cases immediately upon taking office.

And will you be able to review hundreds of cases on day one?” Schiff challenged.

Unfazed, Bondi replied firmly, “I will look at every file I am asked to look at. I’m not going to mislead this body, nor you.”

The hearing took a personal turn when Bondi addressed Schiff’s line of questioning with a pointed reminder of his past actions. “You were censured by Congress, Senator, for comments just like this that are so reckless!” she said, striking a nerve and prompting a visible reaction from Schiff.

This reference to Schiff’s censure stemmed from his controversial actions during his time leading the House Intelligence Committee, particularly his statements during the Trump impeachment inquiries. Bondi’s remark was a calculated move to underscore Schiff’s vulnerability while emphasizing her own refusal to be cornered by his aggressive questioning.

Schiff Probes Allegations Against Liz Cheney

The tension escalated further when Schiff shifted the focus to an ongoing investigation involving former Rep. Liz Cheney. Cheney, a vocal critic of Trump and a key figure in the January 6 Committee, has faced allegations of witness tampering. A GOP-led subcommittee has claimed that Cheney secretly communicated with witness Cassidy Hutchinson via encrypted apps, bypassing her attorney. The subcommittee has recommended that the FBI investigate the matter for potential legal violations, though Cheney has denied the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.

Schiff questioned Bondi on whether she believed there was any factual basis to investigate Cheney. “I’m asking you, sitting here today, whether you are aware of a factual predicate to investigate Liz Cheney,” Schiff pressed.

Bondi’s response was sharp and deflective, signaling her unwillingness to entertain hypotheticals. “Senator, no one has asked me to investigate Liz Cheney. That is a hypothetical,” she said. Then, pivoting to criticize Schiff’s home state, she added, “The crime rate in California right now is through the roof. Your robberies are 87% higher than the national average. That’s what I want to be focused on, Senator, if I’m confirmed as Attorney General.”

Bondi’s ability to redirect the conversation while highlighting broader issues like rising crime resonated with Republican senators in attendance. Her firm stance on avoiding partisan distractions earned her praise from her party and further solidified her reputation as a strong-willed and focused leader.

Bondi’s Nomination and Republican Support

Pam Bondi’s nomination to serve as U.S. Attorney General by President-elect Donald Trump comes at a crucial time for the Justice Department. Bondi is set to replace Matt Gaetz, Trump’s initial pick for the role, who stepped down amid mounting controversies. Her nomination has been met with widespread support from Republican lawmakers and more than 100 former Justice Department officials, who have urged the Senate to confirm her.

These supporters point to Bondi’s record during her tenure as Florida’s Attorney General, where she was known for her commitment to the rule of law and her ability to tackle complex legal challenges. They argue that her experience makes her well-suited for the role of Attorney General, especially in a politically charged environment where impartiality and integrity are paramount.

A Hearing Marked by Sharp Exchanges

The confirmation hearing showcased Bondi’s combative style and her willingness to confront Democratic critics head-on. Her sharp exchanges with Schiff underscored the deep divisions within the Senate Judiciary Committee and highlighted the broader ideological battles playing out in Washington.

While Schiff aimed to corner Bondi on controversial topics like pardons and Cheney’s investigation, Bondi’s responses demonstrated her readiness to push back and maintain focus on the issues she deemed most important. Her emphasis on addressing crime rates and avoiding speculative investigations struck a chord with Republican senators, many of whom praised her performance during the hearing.

The Path Forward

As Bondi’s nomination moves forward, it remains to be seen whether she will garner the bipartisan support needed for confirmation. Democrats have expressed concerns about her potential alignment with Trump’s policies, while Republicans have lauded her as a principled and capable leader.

Regardless of the outcome, the hearing served as a reminder of the high stakes involved in appointing the nation’s top law enforcement official. For Bondi, the hearing was an opportunity to showcase her credentials and make the case for why she is the right person for the job.

In the end, the fiery exchanges between Bondi and Schiff will likely be remembered as a defining moment in her confirmation process—one that highlighted her ability to stand her ground and assert her vision for the Justice Department in the face of intense scrutiny.