In recent testimony, former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, nominated to be the next U.S. Attorney General, promised not to use the Department of Justice to unfairly target pro-life activists.

During her Senate confirmation, Bondi addressed concerns regarding the alleged partisan use of the DOJ, The Christian Post reported.

Pam Bondi, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump, recently appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Her nomination comes after a period of heightened scrutiny concerning how the DOJ handles cases related to abortion activists. Bondi provided assurances that her stewardship of the DOJ would not perpetuate alleged biases.

During the hearing, Senator Josh Hawley, R-Mo., raised questions about how the previous administration enforced the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act). This law, which has been a point of contention, was reportedly used to prosecute at least 53 pro-life demonstrators.

Clarifying Enforcement of Abortion Clinic Protections

"They used legislation, a law known as the FACE Act, to prosecute at least 53 different pro-life demonstrators," stated Sen. Hawley during the session. This assertion highlights the concerns of some that the act might be wielded unevenly against individuals demonstrating pro-life stances.

Bondi's response to questions about enforcing this legislation was unequivocal. She committed to impartial enforcement, emphasizing that the FACE Act protects both abortion clinics and pregnancy centers equally. "The FACE Act not only protects abortion clinics but also protects pregnancy centers, and people going for counseling. The law should be applied evenhandedly," Bondi affirmed.

Additionally, Sen. Hawley interrogated whether Bondi would end what he described as the deliberate intimidation of citizens based on their religious beliefs. Bondi's commitments were clear as she responded affirmatively to stopping disparate treatment based on religious faith.

Senate Continues Probe on DOJ’s Alleged Bias

The backdrop to these discussions is a larger narrative concerning the DOJ’s application of laws against conservative Christians and pro-life activists under the Biden administration. The Republican-controlled House of Representatives held a hearing in February 2023 to investigate these claims.

The concerns arose from high-profile cases like that of Catholic pro-life activist Mark Houck. Houck was arrested but later acquitted by a federal jury, raising questions about the fair application of justice. This case and others have fueled discussions around the alleged "weaponization" of federal law enforcement.

Amid these discussions, Senator Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., queried Bondi about her future handling of the FACE Act. Bondi reiterated her stance, affirming her commitment to evenhanded application of the law, regardless of her personal beliefs. Despite identifying as pro-life, she emphasized her professional responsibility to remain unbiased in the application of the law.

Donald Trump's Endorsement of Bondi's Nomination

When announcing Bondi's nomination in November, President-elect Trump highlighted her extensive experience in law enforcement and policy making. "Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on violent criminals, and made the streets safe for Florida families,” Trump praised.

Beyond her role in criminal justice, Trump commended Bondi's commitment to combating the drug crisis. “Then, as Florida’s first female attorney general, she worked to stop the trafficking of deadly drugs, and reduce the tragedy of fentanyl overdose deaths, which have destroyed many families across our country,” he elaborated.

In an era where the role of the Attorney General is scrutinized for political impartiality, Bondi’s assurances offer a glimpse into her potential leadership style at the DOJ. Her past roles, including her appointment to the federal Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission during Trump's first administration, were cited as foundational to her understanding of complex national issues.

As her confirmation process continues, the responses Bondi provided at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping perceptions of how she will manage the considerable powers of the Department of Justice.