FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced on December 17 that he would leave the bureau in January. His tenure, which lasted less than a year, was marked by challenges and internal friction, particularly regarding the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
Reports indicate that Bongino had been communicating to associates about his plans to depart, with some even noting that he began clearing out his office. President Donald Trump appeared to confirm Bongino’s departure before it was made public by Bongino himself. In a post on X, Bongino expressed gratitude towards Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve. He addressed his fellow Americans, thanking them for the privilege of his role.
Trump’s Praise for Bongino
During a press event on December 17, Trump praised Bongino’s performance, stating, “Dan did a great job,” and acknowledging Bongino’s desire to return to his show. Bongino, who previously served as a Secret Service agent and a New York City police officer, gained significant recognition as the host of The Dan Bongino Show. He has become a notable figure among supporters of Trump’s Make America Great Again movement.
Since March, Bongino played a role in a major overhaul of federal law enforcement as leaders appointed by Trump sought to reshape the FBI and the Justice Department. Following the installation of Patel as the FBI director and Bongino as his deputy, several senior officials within the bureau were removed. Those officials included a former acting FBI director and others who faced allegations of politicizing the agency. Some individuals later filed a federal lawsuit claiming unlawful termination following their exits.
Bongino’s Criticism of the FBI
Prior to his appointment, Bongino was known for his outspoken criticism of the FBI and DOJ, particularly regarding their investigations into Epstein’s activities. He publicly questioned the circumstances surrounding Epstein’s death in 2019 while pending trial on federal sex trafficking charges, suggesting a possible cover-up involving influential figures. After assuming his position, Bongino reviewed FBI materials and expressed his belief that Epstein’s death was a suicide and that there was no existing client list involving Epstein.
In July, the FBI and the Justice Department announced their decision not to release additional Epstein-related files, stating that their review had been exhaustive. This decision drew backlash from many of Bongino’s supporters. After his announcement of departure, subsequent media reports indicated that Bongino clashed with Attorney General Bondi over the handling of the Epstein files and had considered resigning as a result.
Scrutiny Over Investigative Claims
As Bongino prepared to leave the FBI, he faced renewed scrutiny when authorities arrested a suspect linked to the January 6, 2021, pipe bombing incident, a situation that contradicted Bongino’s earlier assertions suggesting it may have been an inside job. During an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Bongino acknowledged the shift from a commentary-driven role to one centered on factual investigations, outlining the responsibilities tied to being a deputy director.
In August, the White House announced that Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey would assume the role of second deputy FBI director. This decision was widely interpreted by observers as a sign of waning influence for Bongino within the administration.
As Bongino’s tenure in the FBI comes to an end, the ramifications of his time in the bureau remain to be seen. His outspoken nature and previous work in law enforcement and media have left a distinct mark on his career.