President Donald Trump dismissed Attorney General Pam Bondi after only 14 months on the job, making her tenure the shortest for a confirmed attorney general since 1975. Trump delivered the news during a Wednesday car ride to the Supreme Court with just four words: “I think it’s time.”

Epstein Files and Political Prosecutions

Trump’s decision stemmed from growing frustration with Bondi’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and her failure to pursue prosecutions against his perceived political enemies, including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. According to The Wall Street Journal, Bondi told colleagues that some of Trump’s demands were “outside of things she could do,” though whether she meant legally impossible remains unclear. The two had discussed her departure since January, but when Bondi requested to stay through the summer, Trump refused.

Congressional Testimony Ahead

Bondi will remain at the Department of Justice through the month to facilitate the transition to her successor, Todd Blanche. During this period, she faces a House Oversight Committee subpoena requiring her testimony about the Epstein files. Ranking member Robert Garcia emphasized that Bondi “will not escape accountability” and must answer questions under oath about her handling of the files and alleged special treatment given to Ghislaine Maxwell. Neither the DOJ nor the White House responded to requests for comment about the specifics of Trump’s demands or what Bondi meant by actions she could not legally perform.

What Comes Next

Bondi announced on social media that she remains “thrilled” about an upcoming private sector role where she will “continue fighting for President Trump and this Administration.” She did not provide specifics about the position. The firing marks another chapter in Trump’s turbulent relationship with his Justice Department leadership, as he continues seeking officials willing to aggressively pursue his political agenda. Bondi’s short tenure raises questions about whether any attorney general can balance Trump’s demands with the department’s traditional independence and legal constraints.