What began as a routine confirmation hearing swiftly turned into a heated confrontation as Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi sparred with Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), drawing attention to his prior censure by Congress. The former Florida Attorney General faced intense scrutiny from Schiff regarding her stance on hypothetical legal scenarios and her position on presidential pardons, culminating in a tense exchange.
Schiff wasted no time pressing Bondi, asking, “Will you advise the President against issuing blanket pardons, insisting on a case-by-case review?” Bondi responded resolutely, “Senator, I have not yet reviewed any of those files. If confirmed, I will carefully evaluate each case, including pardon applications and ongoing investigations.”
As the discussion grew more confrontational, Schiff questioned Bondi’s ability to manage a heavy workload. “Do you expect to review hundreds of cases from day one?” he challenged. Bondi firmly replied, “I will review every file I am assigned. I will not mislead this committee—or you.” The tension peaked when Bondi referenced Schiff’s congressional censure, stating, “Senator, you were censured by Congress for making reckless statements like these!” Her pointed remark clearly struck a nerve.
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The confrontation took another turn when Schiff pivoted to allegations involving former Rep. Liz Cheney. Cheney has been accused of witness tampering in relation to her role on the January 6 Committee. A GOP-led subcommittee alleged she covertly communicated with witness Cassidy Hutchinson through encrypted channels, bypassing legal counsel. While the panel has urged an FBI investigation, Cheney has dismissed the claims as politically motivated, arguing they are an attempt to shield Donald Trump. The FBI has not confirmed whether it will pursue an inquiry.
Schiff then questioned Bondi further, asking, “Do you believe there is a factual basis for investigating Liz Cheney?” Bondi countered, “Senator, no one has requested that I investigate Liz Cheney. That remains a hypothetical situation.” She swiftly redirected the discussion to California’s rising crime rates, adding, “The crime rate in California has soared, with robberies 87% above the national average. If confirmed as Attorney General, my focus will be on addressing real issues like this.”
Bondi’s unwavering responses and refusal to be cornered by Schiff’s line of questioning garnered praise from Republican senators in attendance. The hearing underscored Bondi’s assertive approach and her readiness to challenge Democratic critics—qualities that her supporters argue are essential for the role of Attorney General.