In a move that sends ripples through US politics and FBI leadership, firebrand conservative commentator Dan Bongino has announced he will be stepping down from his role as the FBI deputy director in January. His departure, confirmed in a social media post, marks the end of a contentious yet impactful tenure that began with a surprise appointment by then-President Donald Trump.
Bongino, a staunch Trump ally, took to X to express his gratitude, thanking President Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel “for the opportunity to serve with purpose.” This follows earlier comments from Trump, who lauded Bongino’s performance and suggested he “wants to go back to his show,” hinting at a return to his popular podcast that solidified his public profile.
Bongino’s ascension to one of the FBI’s top roles in February was met with considerable skepticism. Unlike his predecessors, who were career agents, Bongino brought no prior experience with the agency, having previously served as a New York City police officer and a US Secret Service agent assigned to protect Barack Obama. The FBI Agents Association, representing thousands of current and former agents, openly opposed his appointment, underscoring the unconventional nature of his selection.
Despite the initial controversy, his time at the bureau saw significant focus on previously “languishing” investigations. Notably, Bongino pushed to prioritize the January 6, 2021, pipe bomb investigation – a case he had controversially labeled an “inside job” prior to joining the FBI. Earlier this month, a suspect was finally arrested, nearly six years after the bombs were discovered. FBI Director Patel praised Bongino’s efforts, stating he “served as the people’s voice for transparency, and delivered major breakthroughs in long unsolved cases like the pipe bomb investigation.” Patel added, “He not only completed his mission – he far exceeded it.”
Another area where Bongino’s perspective seemingly shifted post-appointment was the death of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. As a commentator, he had fueled speculation around Epstein’s alleged suicide. However, in May, as an FBI deputy, he declared, “I have seen the whole file. He killed himself.” This statement, along with a subsequent memo from the US justice department and FBI confirming Epstein’s suicide and debunking “client list” rumors, reportedly led to a contentious meeting between Bongino and Attorney General Bondi, frustrating many of Trump’s supporters who held onto conspiracy theories.
Attorney General Bondi herself acknowledged Bongino’s service, posting on X that “Americans are safer” because of his contributions to the FBI. The Bongino exit underscores the unique intersection of media, politics, and law enforcement that defined his tenure. As he prepares to depart, his time in FBI leadership will undoubtedly remain a talking point in the ongoing discourse surrounding political appointments and the integrity of national institutions. His influence, both within and outside the government, continues to shape conversations in the heart of US politics.
