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.
