Former President Donald Trump has always been known for surrounding himself with allies who share his vision and loyalty, and his recent consideration of former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi as the next U.S. Attorney General is no exception. As Trump prepares for his second term, he’s turning to Bondi, a political heavyweight with a reputation for toughness and loyalty, to head the Department of Justice (DOJ). But who is Pam Bondi, and why does Trump believe she’s the right person for the job?

Pam Bondi is no stranger to the political spotlight. Serving as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019, she built a reputation as a staunch conservative with a keen focus on law enforcement, consumer protection, and combating human trafficking. During her tenure, Bondi gained national attention for her high-profile lawsuits, including taking on major pharmaceutical companies during the opioid crisis and joining multi-state challenges against Obamacare. Her no-nonsense approach and ability to navigate complex legal battles have earned her widespread respect within Republican circles.

Bondi’s connection to Trump goes beyond her legal credentials. She has been a vocal supporter of the former president since his 2016 campaign, often appearing as a surrogate on the campaign trail and defending his policies in the media. Her loyalty was further solidified during Trump’s first impeachment trial, where she played a prominent role in his defense team. Her ability to articulate Trump’s positions and counter Democratic attacks showcased her legal acumen and political savvy.

Trump has made it clear that he envisions an Attorney General who will bring a proactive, no-holds-barred approach to the DOJ. Following years of what he and his supporters view as politically motivated investigations against him, Trump wants someone who will restore “law and order” to the department and focus on issues that resonate with his base. Bondi’s record in Florida aligns with this vision. She’s tough on crime, unapologetically pro-law enforcement, and has demonstrated a willingness to take on powerful interests.

Critics, however, question whether Bondi’s close ties to Trump could undermine the independence of the DOJ. They point to her role in defending Trump during the impeachment trial and her outspoken support as evidence that she may prioritize loyalty over impartiality. Her supporters counter that her track record in Florida proves she is more than capable of balancing fairness with a firm hand, arguing that she has consistently upheld the rule of law regardless of political pressure.

Trump’s choice of Bondi also sends a strong signal about his administration’s priorities. As Attorney General, Bondi would likely focus on issues that have defined Trump’s agenda, such as cracking down on illegal immigration, addressing voter fraud concerns, and holding big tech accountable for alleged bias. Her experience in tackling the opioid crisis in Florida could also translate into broader national policies aimed at curbing the country’s drug epidemic.

For Trump, Bondi represents a combination of legal expertise, political loyalty, and public relations savvy—a trifecta that fits his vision for the Attorney General role. Her ability to connect with the public and communicate complex legal issues in simple terms makes her a valuable asset in an administration that thrives on messaging and media engagement.

As Trump reshapes his cabinet for his second term, the nomination of Pam Bondi would likely spark intense debate, both in Washington and across the nation. For Trump’s supporters, Bondi represents the fighter the DOJ needs to tackle what they see as corruption and political bias within the department. For critics, her nomination raises questions about the department’s independence and potential politicization.

One thing is certain: Pam Bondi’s name as a potential Attorney General signals that Trump is looking to chart a bold course for the DOJ, one that aligns closely with his vision of accountability, loyalty, and action.