Following a controversial withdrawal by Matt Gaetz, former Florida AG Pam Bondi has stepped in as Trump's new pick for U.S. attorney general.

Trump's selection of Bondi has prompted something of a panic on the left, as evidenced by the reaction of at least one liberal MSNBC commentator, as Fox News reports.

The president-elect made a significant announcement on Thursday evening, revealing Bondi as his choice to lead the Justice Department. This decision came after Gaetz withdrew amid allegations involving illegal activities with minors.

Bondi, recognized for her assertive approach to the role of Florida's top cop, is now poised to take her talents to a national level.

The shift from Gaetz to Bondi has sparked a range of reactions, particularly focusing on Bondi's capability to advance a conservative agenda effectively, unlike her predecessor nominee whose personal controversies overshadowed his professional capabilities.

Former Florida AG's Track Record Under Scrutiny

Jason Johnson, a college professor and MSNBC contributor, voiced significant concerns regarding Bondi's nomination.

He highlighted her experience and competence as factors that make her a potent enforcer of Trump's policies, which he is loath to see  implemented.

“Occasionally, attorneys general try to behave like they are not the personal lawyer of the President of the United States. That is completely out the window. Pam Bondi is exactly what I was saying in the last segment that we should all fear because she's competent,” Johnson articulated during a segment on MSNBC.

His remarks underscore a fear on the left that Bondi will not act independently but will align closely with Trump’s vision, potentially transforming the Justice Department into an extension of White House policy interests.

Concerns Over AG's Role and Independence

Johnson further warned that Bondi's proficiency in legal matters, particularly immigration and educational reforms, positions her as a formidable figure for those who oppose Trump's agenda.

“She knows what she's doing about immigration. Remember, Florida is one of those states that has been very aggressive about migrants and deportation and moving people to different states and everything else like that,” he explained.

“We may not agree with her ideologically, but she actually knows how to do this job,” Johnson added, pointing out the contrast between Bondi’s expertise and Gaetz’s previous controversies.

His commentary positions Bondi as a more calculated and strategic choice for the role of attorney general.

The MSNBC contributor concluded his thoughts with a stark warning: “She is a dangerous and effective pick, and that’s frankly worse than what we would have got with Matt Gaetz, even with the deplorable moral background that he has.”

Broader Implications for Justice and Liberty

While Johnson’s critique paints a grim picture of what could come, it also serves as what he said was a call to action for those who value judicial independence and fear the erosion of democratic norms.

“So while it might be a loss in the battle, I don’t necessarily think it’s a victory in the war against what may be an AG that ushers in an authoritarian type of presidency that affects the fundamental rights of American citizens,” Johnson stated, reflecting on the broader political ramifications.

The appointment of Pam Bondi could herald a significant shift in how the U.S. Justice Department handles everything from immigration to educational policy, potentially mirroring some of her strong stances taken in Florida.

As the Senate prepares for the confirmation hearings, all eyes will be on Bondi and how she intends to navigate her role amid these heightened expectations and criticisms.