Trump Administration Removes ATF Chief Counsel in Biden-Era DOJ Overhaul

Attorney General Pam Bondi enforces President Trump's mandate to replace key officials, including Pamela Hicks, as part of a broader effort to reshape federal law enforcement leadership.

Pamela Hicks, Chief Counsel for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), was fired by Attorney General Pam Bondi on Thursday after nearly 28 years of federal service.
The removal is part of President Donald Trump's directive to terminate remaining Biden-era appointees, including U.S. attorneys, to 'restore confidence' in the justice system.
Hicks, who served as ATF Chief Counsel since 2021, was known for overseeing enforcement of Biden administration policies on firearms, drawing criticism from gun rights groups.
The firing follows other high-profile DOJ leadership changes, including the recent resignation of the FBI's general counsel and the confirmation of Kash Patel as FBI Director.
President Trump and Attorney General Bondi have emphasized the need to 'clean house' to address perceived politicization within the Department of Justice.