US President Donald Trump has removed Attorney General Pam Bondi - a longtime ally and fierce defender of his administration - from her position as America's top law enforcement officer.
Trump praised her in a post on Truth Social and said she would be transitioning to a role in the private sector.
Bondi's time leading the justice department was often overshadowed by its handling of the release of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein and its investigation into the convicted sex offender.
She is the second Trump administration official in recent weeks to be cut from her post, after Kristi Noem was ousted as homeland security chief in March. Bondi will be replaced by her former deputy, Todd Blanche.
Bondi said she would be working tirelessly to transfer her work to Blanche, adding that the job had been the honour of a lifetime.
Bondi added that in her new private sector position - which she did not identify - she would continue fighting for President Trump and this administration.
The announcement comes less than two months after a combative congressional hearing in which Bondi was peppered with questions from lawmakers, resulting in shouting matches.
As recently as Thursday morning, Trump defended Bondi, calling her a wonderful person doing a good job. However, hours later, he confirmed her departure, stating her new role would be announced in the near future.
Trump cited Bondi's success in overseeing crime reduction but reportedly grew frustrated with her management of the Epstein files. Under her leadership, the justice department faced backlash over crucial decisions regarding the Epstein case and legislative oversight.
Some lawmakers criticized Bondi for not adequately protecting survivors’ identities, while others called for full transparency in relation to the Epstein investigation.
Recent bipartisan criticism climaxed with calls for her removal, highlighting significant concerns over missing information and legal compliance.
Bondi's departure is seen as a pivotal moment, potentially impacting the Trump administration's handling of sensitive legal matters moving forward.
