Democrat Refuses To Vote For Bondi

Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) recently expressed doubts about President-elect Trump’s choice for Attorney General, Pam Bondi, following her confirmation hearing. Although Coons initially stated that he was undecided, he revealed that he would likely vote against Bondi’s nomination, at least for now, after a key exchange during the hearing.

During an appearance on CNN’s The Source, Coons explained that Bondi provided satisfactory answers to his first two questions. However, he raised concerns after asking her what she would do if instructed to carry out illegal or unethical actions. Bondi responded that it was a hypothetical scenario she wouldn’t address. Coons, clearly frustrated, told her that such a question was not theoretical, given the possibility that President Trump might ask her to act in such a manner.

Coons admitted that his stance on Bondi’s confirmation was now leaning toward a “no” vote but added that he would review the full transcript before making a final decision. He emphasized his intent to be fair and give Bondi a chance to prove herself, but the lack of a clear, reassuring answer about standing up to unethical orders was troubling.

Bondi, who was the second choice after Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) withdrew from consideration, faced sharp questioning from Senate Democrats. Many voiced concerns that whoever Trump chose for Attorney General would turn the position into a tool for political retribution against his enemies. Bondi defended Trump against accusations of using the Justice Department for political purposes, citing the multiple investigations into him as evidence of a politicized DOJ.

For Democrats like Coons, one of the most critical aspects of the Attorney General’s role is maintaining the independence of the Department of Justice and the FBI. Coons stated that Bondi’s unwillingness to directly address concerns about political loyalty raised doubts about her ability to stand up to Trump, should the situation demand it. For him, the independence of the DOJ must always come before personal or political loyalty.

Coons’ concerns echo a broader sentiment among Democrats that the next Attorney General must prioritize the rule of law over partisan interests. The outcome of Bondi’s confirmation will likely set the tone for how the Trump administration’s relationship with the Justice Department unfolds.