Donald Trump picks 'smart and tough' Pam Bondi as new US Attorney General after Matt Gaetz withdraws

Trump announced the decision on social media.

"I am proud to announce former Attorney General of the Great State of Florida, Pam Bondi, as our next Attorney General of the United States.

"Pam was a prosecutor for nearly 20 years, where she was very tough on Violent Criminals, and made the streets safe for Florida Families," the President-elect wrote on Truth Social.

Bondi, 59, is the former Attorney General of Florida. She served as the Attorney General of Florida from 2011 to 2019.

She was Trump's defence lawyer during the President-elect's impeachment hearing in 2020.

Bondi has remained close to Trump since his 2016 Presidential election campaign.

Trump's unconventional and controversial pick Matt Gaetz withdraws

Trump picked Bondi after Matt Gaetz, whose appointment had triggered controversies, withdrew from the post little more than a week after he was tapped into the role.

Gaetz's pick stirred a row as he is facing multiple probes into the alleged sexual misconduct, sex trafficking, illicit drug abuse. The Congressman has rejected all allegations.

He wrote on X, "I had excellent meetings with Senators yesterday. I appreciate their thoughtful feedback - and the incredible support of so many. 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.

"There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1."

"I remain fully committed to see that Donald J. Trump is the most successful President in history. I will forever be honored that President Trump nominated me to lead the Department of Justice and I'm certain he will Save America."