Former Attorney General Pam Bondi has been appointed by President Donald Trump to the Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, a key panel shaping artificial intelligence policy and competition with China. The move comes after Bondi stepped down from her role as attorney general in April and reportedly battled thyroid cancer, which she has since been recovering from.
Bondi’s New Role
Bondi will facilitate coordination between administration officials and tech leaders on the panel, including Jensen Huang, Mark Zuckerberg, and Larry Ellison. The council, created via a March executive order, is chaired by David Sacks and Michael Kratsios. While Bondi is not yet listed on the panel’s roster, Axios confirmed her appointment.
Health Update and Public Response
Bondi’s cancer diagnosis was disclosed by Axios, with sources confirming she underwent treatment and is recovering. Katie Miller, a former White House staffer, shared the news on X, praising Bondi’s resilience. Vice President JD Vance welcomed her return, calling her a “valuable asset” to the administration.
Background on Bondi’s Departure
Bondi left the Justice Department in April, with Todd Blanche taking over as acting attorney general. Since then, Blanche has overseen high-profile initiatives, including the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and a $1.776 billion DOJ compensation fund for alleged victims of government “weaponization.”
Policy and Political Context
The advisory council’s focus on AI and infrastructure aligns with Trump’s broader tech and national security priorities. Bondi’s past work, including her efforts against fentanyl trafficking and advocacy for victims, has been noted by allies. Critics have questioned her ouster, though no official reason was given.
Diverse Perspectives
Supporters highlight Bondi’s experience in law enforcement and policy, while others focus on her lobbying background. The administration emphasizes her role in bridging gaps between government and tech leaders, while some observers note the panel’s influence on China competition and AI regulation.