Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi, recently removed from her post, has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The 60-year-old is undergoing treatment, including surgery, and will join the White House’s new advisory council on artificial intelligence, the Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).
Cancer Diagnosis Amidst Transition
Bondi’s diagnosis came to light shortly after her departure from the Department of Justice in early April. She confirmed to CBS News that she is actively receiving treatment for thyroid cancer, a condition with a high survival rate and often curable, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The specific stage of Bondi’s cancer has not been disclosed.
Despite her health battle, Bondi remains engaged in public service. Her appointment to PCAST marks her first known role following her tenure as Attorney General. This move signifies her continued involvement in critical administration initiatives.
Joining the Presidential Council on AI
The Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) was established by President Trump’s executive order in January 2025. Its mission is to harness the expertise of leaders from academia, industry, and government to guide the nation in science and technology advancements.
Bondi joins a distinguished group of council members announced in March 2026. Notable appointees include Google co-founder Sergey Brin, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, underscoring the caliber of individuals tasked with advising on AI and other scientific frontiers.
Vice President JD Vance expressed his enthusiasm for Bondi’s continued contribution. “Pam has been an enormously valuable asset to the president’s team, and I’m thrilled for her and for all of us that she’s going to remain involved in confronting some of the most important issues the administration faces,” Vance stated.
Background and Upcoming Testimony
Bondi, a staunch supporter of President Trump since his first term, is scheduled to testify before the House Oversight Committee. Her testimony will address her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files during her time at the Department of Justice.
The release of these files has drawn bipartisan criticism, with some lawmakers alleging that crucial information was withheld from the public. This upcoming hearing adds another layer of scrutiny to her recent departure from the administration.
Bondi is one of several cabinet members to have left their positions this year. Kristi Noem was removed as Secretary of Homeland Security, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer departed as Labor Secretary. Most recently, Tulsi Gabbard announced her resignation as Director of National Intelligence, citing her husband’s bone cancer diagnosis.
Implications and Future Outlook
Bondi’s appointment to the AI advisory council, despite her recent cancer diagnosis and upcoming congressional testimony, highlights the administration’s focus on leveraging experienced individuals for critical technological guidance. Her unique background, bridging law enforcement and now science and technology policy, could offer a distinct perspective on the ethical and regulatory challenges of artificial intelligence.
The inclusion of high-profile tech leaders alongside Bondi suggests a comprehensive approach to advising on AI. As the PCAST convenes, attention will be on the specific recommendations and strategies they develop to maintain American leadership in science and technology. The coming months will reveal how Bondi navigates her health, her testimony, and her new role in shaping the nation’s AI future.
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