Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Justice. This has sparked considerable discussion about how Bondi, a seasoned prosecutor and close Trump ally, might approach the role. Interviews with former colleagues, including a Democratic rival she later appointed to a key position, paint a picture of Bondi as a skilled litigator who prioritizes collaboration and consensus-building.

Those familiar with Bondi's career suggest that if confirmed, her priorities will likely mirror those she pursued in Florida, including tackling drug trafficking, stemming the flow of illicit fentanyl, and ensuring equitable treatment for both political and career appointees within the Justice Department.

Combating the Opioid Crisis:

As Florida's Attorney General in 2010, Bondi confronted the state's opioid epidemic head-on, tackling the numerous "pill mills" that contributed to Florida being the "epicenter of the opioid crisis." At the time, Florida faced a significant challenge with drug tourism, loose prescribing practices, and an alarming opioid-related death toll. Bondi implemented legislation to shut down pill mills, cracked down on over-prescribing doctors and clinics, and coordinated federal, state, and local efforts to combat the crisis. Her work earned her recognition, and she later served on Trump's Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission. If confirmed as US Attorney General, Bondi has indicated her intention to continue this fight on a national level, focusing on drug trafficking, fentanyl, and the cartels facilitating their distribution.

Bipartisanship and Collaboration:

Bondi's extensive experience as a prosecutor, both in the Hillsborough County State Attorney's Office and as Florida's Attorney General, has shaped her approach to justice. Colleagues emphasize her focus on cooperation and collaboration within the criminal justice system. Her appointment of a former Democratic rival as her drug czar underscores her commitment to problem-solving and bipartisan collaboration, even facing criticism from within her own party. This willingness to work across the aisle is seen as a key characteristic that could influence her tenure as US Attorney General.

Navigating Political Pressures:

Trump's criticism of the Justice Department and calls to pursue his "enemies" raise concerns about potential political influence. However, those close to Bondi believe her experience will enable her to navigate these pressures. While she has supported investigating alleged misconduct within the Justice Department, colleagues suggest she has learned from previous investigations and is unlikely to engage in politically motivated prosecutions. They anticipate a measured approach, prioritizing justice over political agendas.