Attorney General Pam Bondi Defends Proposed ATF and DEA Merger During House Hearing
WASHINGTON — In a pivotal congressional hearing, Attorney General Pam Bondi assured that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) operations at Redstone Arsenal would remain unaffected by the Department of Justice’s proposal to merge it with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This marked Bondi’s first appearance before Congress since her swearing-in.
Bondi responded to concerns raised by U.S. Representative Dale Strong, R-Huntsville, regarding the potential impact of the merger on the ATF’s National Center for Explosives Training and Research at Redstone Arsenal. This facility is crucial, specializing in explosives and arson training. Strong emphasized its critical functions, highlighting its role in life-saving initiatives.
Despite the DOJ’s proposed restructuring, Bondi maintained, “There are no cuts planned for that,” underscoring the collaborative potential between ATF and DEA agents, as they tackle interconnected issues of drug trafficking and firearms. She described the synergy between the two agencies as necessary, stating, “The drugs and the guns go together.”
Bondi faced scrutiny from Democratic Representative Rose DeLauro of Connecticut, who challenged the budgetary implications of the merger. The DOJ’s fiscal year 2026 budget request suggests a significant reduction of $468 million for the ATF, with further cuts proposed for the DEA. DeLauro argued that merging both agencies while slashing their budgets would compromise their effectiveness.
In addition, Bondi expressed her support for an FBI relocation initiative that would bring 500 workers to Huntsville, citing it as a cost-effective move with unique partnership opportunities. Bondi is set to address a Senate Appropriations subcommittee later this week, continuing discussions on these crucial reforms.
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