Trump Considers Replacing Attorney General Bondi

Alexa Monteleone

Summary

Trump has considered replacing Attorney General Bondi amid controversy over the Epstein files.

Why this matters

The potential reshuffling of Trump's Cabinet could impact the administration's legal strategy and highlight tension regarding high-profile investigations.

President Donald Trump has reportedly considered dismissing Attorney General Pam Bondi and replacing her with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation, CNN reported.

Despite the discussions about Bondi’s potential removal, it’s unclear if Trump has reached a definitive decision. Bondi was present with Trump on Wednesday during Supreme Court arguments and remarks on Iran, where Trump expressed confidence in her. “Attorney General Pam Bondi is a wonderful person and she is doing a good job,” he said.

Sources indicate that the idea of replacing Bondi with Zeldin first emerged in January but faded until recently, as discussions reignited within the administration. While not a definitive replacement, Zeldin has been frequently mentioned by Trump. Previously representing New York in Congress, Zeldin has stayed close to Trump since losing the 2022 New York gubernatorial race to Kathy Hochul.

Observers note Bondi has had the backing of key figures, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, despite controversies such as her February 2025 comments about an Epstein client list which authorities later claimed did not exist.

This potential Cabinet change follows Trump’s recent dismissal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Bondi assumed her role following former Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal and was confirmed in 2025, promising to avoid improper targeting in criminal probes against political figures.

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