Former Florida AG Pam Bondi Under Scrutiny For Lobbying Ties

Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi is facing renewed scrutiny over her lobbying work for controversial clients, sparking debate about political influence in Washington. The Republican, who served as AG from 2011 to 2019, has reportedly earned millions through her firm since leaving office, including contracts with opioid manufacturers and foreign governments.

Bondi’s name resurfaced this week after a watchdog group filed ethics complaints regarding her undisclosed work for a Saudi-backed golf league. Documents obtained by The Washington Post show her firm received $2.3 million from LIV Golf in 2023 while she simultaneously appeared as a Fox News commentator covering the league’s merger with the PGA Tour.

Critics argue Bondi’s career exemplifies the “revolving door” between government and lucrative lobbying roles. “This is exactly why Americans distrust Washington,” said CREW President Noah Bookbinder, whose organization filed the complaint. Bondi’s spokesperson called the allegations “baseless” and noted she fully complies with disclosure laws.

The controversy comes as Congress debates tighter lobbying restrictions. Bondi, a close Trump ally, previously drew criticism for dropping a fraud investigation into Trump University after receiving a $25,000 campaign donation from the former president in 2013.

Florida ethics officials confirmed they are reviewing the new complaint. Meanwhile, LIV Golf maintains Bondi provided “legal consulting,” not lobbying services. The story gained traction after trending on political podcasts and cable news segments this week.

Bondi remains active in Republican politics, recently campaigning for Trump’s 2024 bid. Her case highlights ongoing tensions between private sector influence and public service accountability in post-government careers.