As someone deeply concerned about the escalating fascist rhetoric in our nation's capital, I find Attorney General Pam Bondi's recent conduct alarming and even dangerous. Bondi, as a crucial part of the justice system, should be impartial and uphold the fundamental principles of democratic governance—it seems, however, that Bondi has veered away from these obligations by threatening consequences for any and all Department of Justice attorneys who do not follow orders meted out by the current administration.

Following the disturbing news of a Maryland man deported to El Salvador, Bondi affirmed her support for this action which, to many, seemed unjust and inhumane. Her words reflected an unspoken adherence to leadership above the consideration for truth, stimulating an already tense polarized atmosphere. When government attorney Erez Reuveni truthfully revealed the lack of information he received regarding Abrego Garcia’s wrongful kidnapping by ICE to the courts, he was placed on leave. According to NBC News, “Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement following the news that Reuveni had been placed on leave, “At my direction, every Department of Justice attorney is required to zealously advocate on behalf of the United States. Any attorney who fails to abide by this direction will face consequences.”

Scholars claim that such threats are characteristic of dictatorship-like regimes, not democracies (Stanford's study on the comparison of autocracy and democracy). 

As citizens who believe in the values of integrity, truth, and justice, we must act to counteract this growing sense of authoritarianism. We are therefore calling for the immediate removal of Pam Bondi from office for her participation in, and propagation of, the worrying rise of fascist principles.

Stand with us, support democracy, and sign this petition today.