Capitol Hill hearing raises key questions about Justice Department’s independence

President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi, faced intense questioning during her confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill this week.

The former Florida attorney general, known for her close ties to Trump, was grilled by lawmakers for hours as she defended her qualifications and addressed concerns about the independence of the Justice Department under her leadership.

Bondi’s nomination followed the withdrawal of Trump’s initial pick, Matt Gaetz, after a federal sex trafficking investigation and ethics probe raised doubts about his confirmation prospects.

Trump’s decision to nominate Bondi was announced in a social media post, emphasizing her extensive legal experience and prior public service.

Bondi, 59, a tough prosecutor in Florida has long been a fixture in Trump’s political circle, previously being floated for key roles during his first term.

As the confirmation process continues, her responses and the Senate’s decision will be closely watched for signals about the future direction of the Justice Department under Trump’s second administration.