Former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has recently shared insights about his experiences within the bureau, highlighting both the challenges he faced and the personal impact it had on him. In an interview with Sean Hannity, Bongino expressed his belief that his time at the FBI has led to lasting changes in his perspective and heightened concerns regarding his safety.
Bongino’s Changed Perspective
Bongino stated that his tenure in the FBI has deeply affected him, suggesting that the experiences have left him feeling vulnerable. He articulated his fears about potential retaliation from powerful entities, noting, “I will never be the same.” He emphasized his commitment to conducting his work by the book, stating, “Everything was by the book. I’m confident in that.” However, he cautioned that strict adherence to protocols might not safeguard him from backlash.
Concerns About Document Mismanagement
During the interview, Bongino discussed a substantial collection of documents related to the FBI’s Crossfire Hurricane investigation, which looked into alleged connections between Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia. Bongino characterized these documents as more alarming than he had anticipated, claiming that the severity of what he encountered was “ten times worse” than expected. He expressed concerns that some of these documents were never intended for public scrutiny and could have been destroyed.
Implications of Internal Divisions
Furthermore, Bongino highlighted the existence of what he perceives as a divided FBI, suggesting that there are effectively “two FBIs” operating under different sets of standards. He believes this dichotomy contributes to internal strife and public mistrust in the agency’s operations. Bongino’s perspective underscores a broader concern about how these dynamics may affect the bureau’s integrity moving forward.
Political Fears and Security Issues
Bongino also shared his anxieties regarding political transitions in Washington, specifically the potential consequences should there be a shift in power. He conveyed his worries to his wife, stating, “You don’t think on election night, if we lose, it’s not going through my head?” He expressed belief that the handling of past investigations, particularly concerning the Trump administration, has shaped his view of political accountability and safety.
Concerns About Security Protocols
Addressing security measures, Bongino pointed to recent security incidents, such as the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, to highlight vulnerabilities in the protective protocols surrounding high-profile individuals. He argued that these vulnerabilities represent significant risks, especially in a politically charged atmosphere.
A Commitment to Transparency
Despite the serious nature of his claims, Bongino affirmed that he stands by his actions during his career at the FBI. He maintained his stance that his efforts were crucial and justified, stating, “It’s not a sob story. I knew what I was getting into.” However, he made it clear that the revelations and experiences he encountered within the FBI carry substantial implications for both his personal life and the broader political climate.
As Bongino reflected on his experiences, he expressed a continuous concern for the ramifications of what he uncovered during his service. “I think about it every day,” he concluded, signifying the enduring nature of his apprehensions regarding his safety and the state of accountability within the institutions he once served.