In a recent announcement, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino revealed he will be leaving the bureau in January, concluding a brief tenure marked by internal challenges. His resignation is set to take effect after less than a year in the role of second-in-command.
Bongino’s decision to exit follows reports of discord with Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the management of investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein. Reports indicate that Bongino had been informing colleagues about his intended departure and had started the process of clearing out his office.
Trump Acknowledges Bongino’s Contributions
President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged Bongino’s departure before Bongino made an official statement. In a post on X, Bongino extended his gratitude to Trump, Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to serve. He emphasized his gratitude towards the American public for allowing him to fulfill this role.
When questioned by reporters, Trump praised Bongino’s performance, stating, “Dan did a great job.” He added that Bongino was eager to return to his show, indicating the former FBI official’s strong presence in media circles.
Background and Impact of Bongino’s Appointment
Bongino, who previously worked as a Secret Service agent and New York City police officer, gained national recognition as the host of The Dan Bongino Show. He has been a prominent figure within the Trump-supporting Make America Great Again movement.
Since assuming office in March, Bongino played a critical role in overseeing a comprehensive overhaul of federal law enforcement. Following the appointment of Patel as the new FBI director, Bongino contributed to significant personnel changes within the bureau. This included the removal of senior officials accused of politicizing the organization. Some of these officials later initiated a federal lawsuit alleging unlawful termination.
Bongino’s Controversial Perspectives on Epstein
Prior to joining the FBI, Bongino was a vocal critic of the FBI and the Department of Justice, particularly regarding their actions related to Jeffrey Epstein. He publicly questioned the circumstances of Epstein’s death in 2019, while awaiting trial for federal sex trafficking charges, suggesting there may have been a cover-up involving powerful individuals.
After his appointment, Bongino claimed to have reviewed FBI materials and stated that he concluded Epstein’s death was indeed a suicide, countering his previous skepticism. In July, the FBI and the Justice Department decided not to disclose any further Epstein-related files, citing an extensive review process. This decision has led to dissatisfaction among Bongino’s supporters.
Internal Conflicts and Future Plans
Media reports have indicated that Bongino experienced conflicts with Bondi regarding decisions made by the Justice Department, prompting discussions about his resignation. MAGA influencer Laura Loomer asserted on X that both Bongino and Patel expressed frustration concerning the department’s handling of significant matters.
Bongino also faced renewed scrutiny earlier this month following the arrest of a suspect linked to the pipe bombing on January 6, 2021. This development contradicted Bongino’s previous assertions that suggested potential internal involvement in the attack.
In an interview on Fox News with Sean Hannity, Bongino discussed the transition from media pundit to law enforcement leader, stating that his new role required investigations to reflect factual evidence rather than opinions.
In August, the White House announced that Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey would join the FBI as a second deputy director, a move seen as indicative of Bongino’s diminishing status within the White House administration.
As Bongino prepares to leave the FBI, the future of his career remains a point of interest for both his supporters and those following developments within the bureau.