Nadler Mocked for Appearing to Doze Off During Bondi Hearing

The House Judiciary Committee chairman was seen with his eyes closed during portions of the key hearing.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., was observed with his eyes shut as Pam Bondi, the Attorney General, gave her opening statement during a House Judiciary Committee hearing. The committee's Republican account mocked Nadler for appearing to doze off, and other social media users shared videos and images of the congressman appearing to sleep during the proceedings.

Why it matters

Nadler's behavior during the high-profile hearing has drawn criticism, with some suggesting it shows a lack of seriousness in addressing the issues surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case that Bondi was testifying about. As the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Nadler's attentiveness and engagement during such hearings is closely watched.

The details

Nadler, a 78-year-old 17-term congressman, was seen with his eyes closed as Bondi gave her opening statement. The committee's Republican account shared a video of Nadler with sleeping emojis, noting that he also appeared to doze off as Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., gave his opening remarks. Other social media users also posted videos and images of Nadler appearing to sleep during the hearing.

  • Nadler was observed with his eyes closed during portions of the hearing on February 11, 2026.

The players

Jerry Nadler

A 78-year-old 17-term Democratic congressman from New York who serves as the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General who was testifying before the House Judiciary Committee.

Jamie Raskin

The top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee.

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What they’re saying

“Don't worry, @RepNadler. We are tired of listening to @RepRaskin complain about President Trump too!”

— House Judiciary Committee Republicans (X)

“Nadler "falls asleep during @AGPamBondi opening statement at today's DOJ hearing. Gets awaken by staffer #TermLimits”

— Social media user (Social media)

The takeaway

Nadler's apparent lack of attentiveness during the high-profile hearing has drawn criticism, raising questions about his commitment to addressing the issues surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein case that were the focus of Bondi's testimony.