Columbia Standard

U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, a key member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has cast a vote against advancing Pam Bondi's nomination as Attorney General. The committee moved forward with her nomination on a party-line vote of 12-10.

Durbin expressed his concerns about the Department of Justice under President Trump, quoting the President's statement: "I have the absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department." He criticized Trump's use of the department for political purposes and his threats against perceived enemies.

Durbin emphasized that any nominee for Attorney General should prioritize the Constitution and American people over political agendas. He questioned Bondi's commitment to this principle, citing her past actions and statements supporting Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

During Bondi's hearing, she denied familiarity with Trump's call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger but had previously defended Trump's conduct on television. Durbin found it concerning that Bondi would comment publicly on legal matters without reviewing evidence.

He also addressed Bondi's comments about a "peaceful transition of power" in 2021, which he contradicted based on his experience during the January 6 Capitol events. Durbin raised concerns about potential pardons for those involved in January 6 riots and highlighted bipartisan support for an independent Justice Department since Watergate.

Despite entering Bondi’s hearing with an open mind, Durbin stated he did not receive satisfactory answers regarding her independence from presidential influence. He concluded by expressing hope that Bondi might prove him wrong but could not support her nomination due to unresolved conflicts of interest related to her previous lobbying work.

Pam Bondi has been associated with Ballard Partners and listed limited potential conflicts in response to a Senate Judiciary Questionnaire.