Trump Removes Pam Bondi as Attorney General, Names Todd Blanche as Replacement

Former President Donald Trump removed Pam Bondi from her position as Attorney General on Thursday, April 2, 2026, replacing her with Todd Blanche, her former deputy. The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Bondi’s handling of Department of Justice (DOJ) files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Source: BBC News

Background on Pam Bondi’s Tenure

Bondi, a longtime ally of Trump, had served as Attorney General for the past year. Her time in office was frequently overshadowed by questions surrounding the release of documents pertaining to Jeffrey Epstein and the DOJ’s investigation into him. Source: CNBC She faced a combative congressional hearing in February 2025, where she engaged in heated exchanges with lawmakers. Source: BBC News

Reasons for Removal

Reports indicate that Trump had grown increasingly dissatisfied with Bondi’s handling of the Epstein-related DOJ files and the department’s perceived failure to prosecute his political adversaries. Source: CNBC Despite defending Bondi as recently as Thursday morning, Trump announced her departure later that day on Truth Social, stating she would be transitioning to a new role in the private sector.

Todd Blanche Named Acting Attorney General

Todd Blanche, Bondi’s former deputy, will serve as acting Attorney General. Trump described Blanche as a “extremely talented and respected Legal Mind” in his social media post. Source: CNBC

Potential Permanent Replacement

Trump is reportedly considering Lee Zeldin, the current administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, as a permanent replacement for Bondi. Source: CNBC Source: The Washington Post

Bondi’s Future Plans

Bondi stated she would “continue fighting for President Trump and this administration” in her new private sector position, though she did not specify the role. Source: BBC News She expressed that her time as Attorney General had been “the honor” of a lifetime and pledged to work diligently to ensure a smooth transition for Blanche.

Recent Departures from the Trump Administration

Bondi is the second Trump administration official to be removed from their post in recent weeks, following Kristi Noem’s ouster as homeland security chief in March. Source: BBC News