Trump nominates his former lawyer for attorney general after his first pick bows out

Donald Trump announced on Thursday the nomination of Pam Bondi, the former attorney general of Florida, as the next US attorney general. This development came hours after his initial choice, Matt Gaetz, withdrew from consideration amid a federal investigation into allegations of sex trafficking.

Gaetz, a Republican and staunch Trump ally, stated that his nomination had become a "distraction" to the administration's efforts. "While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition," said Gaetz. He added that he would continue to support the administration from a different capacity.

The withdrawal followed allegations brought forward by two women to the House Ethics Committee, accusing Gaetz of paying them for sex on multiple occasions and having sexual relations with a minor in Florida in 2017. The ongoing investigation has cast a shadow over Gaetz's political career.

In response, Trump swiftly nominated Pam Bondi, a long-time ally who had represented him during his first impeachment trial. Bondi, a Tampa native, was Florida's first female attorney general and has 18 years of prosecutorial experience. She also served as chair of the America First Policy Institute, a think tank founded by former Trump administration officials.

Bondi’s record includes defending Trump during his impeachment trial related to alleged misconduct involving Ukraine. Her advocacy skills and staunch support for Trump have made her a trusted figure within his circle.