Senators Marco Rubio and Pam Bondi start their confirmation hearings amid a smooth process for Trump’s cabinet nominees
During his hearing, Rubio promised to stick to Trump’s “America First” approach. He made it clear that focusing on national interests isn’t isolationism; it’s just common sense. Bondi, on the other hand, was careful not to stir the pot. She emphasized that the Justice Department needs to be independent and fair.
There were also other nominees in the mix, like Rep. John Ratcliffe for the CIA and Sean Duffy for Transportation. Pete Hegseth is also looking good for defense secretary after getting a thumbs-up from Sen. Joni Ernst.
All nominees need at least 50 votes to get confirmed, so they can’t afford to lose too many GOP votes if the Democrats stick together. Most are expected to sail through, but some, like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services, are still up in the air.
Bondi faced some tough questions, especially about whether she’d stand up to Trump if he made improper requests. She mostly played it safe, echoing Trump’s claims of being targeted by the Justice Department. She also mentioned she’d advise Trump on pardons related to the January 6 Capitol attack but wouldn’t commit to anything.
Rubio kept things light, joking that both friends and foes might have reasons to support his nomination. It’s all part of the game in D.C., and it looks like they’re both in it to win it.
