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.