President Donald Trump has privately considered replacing Attorney General Pam Bondi with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator Lee Zeldin, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.

Frustration Over Epstein Files

The discussions stem from Trump’s frustration with the backlash over his administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. Sources indicate Trump has questioned Bondi’s performance and asked about potential replacements.

Bondi is scheduled to testify later this month before Congress as part of the investigation into the late sex trafficker. Trump has also reportedly expressed dissatisfaction that she hasn’t pursued investigations into his political opponents.

Trump's Public Support & DOJ Response

Despite the discussions, Trump publicly voiced confidence in Bondi on Wednesday, stating, “Attorney General Pam Bondi is a wonderful person and she is doing a good job.”

The Justice Department deferred to the White House statement when asked for comment. A source stated that recent conversations between Trump and Bondi have been “business as usual.”

Zeldin as a Potential Replacement

Early Discussions & Background

The possibility of replacing Bondi with Zeldin first surfaced in January but subsided as media coverage of the Epstein case diminished. However, the idea resurfaced this week within the West Wing.

Zeldin, an attorney and veteran, previously represented New York’s 1st congressional district before joining the EPA. He remained a close ally of Trump after losing the 2022 New York governor’s race to Kathy Hochul, frequently appearing at Mar-A-Lago during the 2024 campaign.

Internal Support & Concerns

Bondi has allies within the administration, including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, who has previously intervened to support her. However, Wiles previously acknowledged to Vanity Fair that Bondi had “completely whiffed” in her handling of the Epstein files.

A specific point of contention involves Bondi’s February 2025 statement on Fox News regarding an Epstein client list, which the department later denied existed.

Recent Personnel Changes & Bondi's Appointment

This potential change follows Trump’s recent ousting of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Bondi was Trump’s second choice to lead the Justice Department, following Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal.

Bondi was confirmed as Attorney General in 2025 by a 54-46 vote, assuring lawmakers she would not initiate politically motivated criminal investigations.