In a significant development within the United States' top law enforcement agency, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has declared his intention to resign from his post this coming January. The announcement, made public on Wednesday, brings to a close a short but notably high-profile period in office that was frequently characterised by public disagreements with the Justice Department and the unique challenge of balancing his official duties with his past as a prominent conservative commentator.
A Public Announcement and Presidential Praise
Dan Bongino took to the social media platform X to share his decision with the nation. He wrote, “I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January.” In his message, he extended gratitude to President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the chance to serve. He reserved his final thanks for the American public, stating it was a privilege to serve them and ending with “God bless America, and all those who defend Her.”
Earlier the same day, when questioned about the impending departure, President Trump commended Bongino's work. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), Trump said, “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.” This remark directly alludes to Bongino's successful career prior to his FBI appointment, where he hosted a popular conservative podcast and show, often levelling sharp criticism at the very institution he would later help lead.
A Tenure Defined by Friction and Evolving Stances
Bongino's time as Deputy Director was far from smooth, marked by visible tension with officials at the Justice Department. A primary source of conflict was the handling of the investigation into financier Jeffrey Epstein. Initially, Bongino had publicly expressed doubts about the official narrative of Epstein's death in 2019. However, he later revised his position, telling Fox News, “I’ve seen the whole file. He killed himself.”
A similar pattern emerged regarding the pipe bombs discovered in Washington, D.C., ahead of the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Bongino had previously speculated the devices could be part of an “inside job” or the work of a “connected anti-Trump insider.” Upon joining the FBI, he later acknowledged that the agency's investigations are grounded in facts, not speculation.
Unconventional Appointments and a Mission to Reform
The appointments of both Dan Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel were seen as unconventional, as neither had prior experience within the FBI bureaucracy. According to the AP, both men were brought in with a mandate to reform an agency that the Trump administration believed had become politicised under previous leadership. Bongino's background included service as a New York City police officer and a Secret Service agent, bringing a law enforcement perspective from outside the Bureau.
His leadership was praised by his colleagues. FBI Director Kash Patel hailed him as “the best partner I could’ve asked for in helping restore this FBI,” adding that Bongino had not just completed but “far exceeded” his mission. Attorney General Pam Bondi also lauded his service, stating Americans were safer because of his contributions.
Bongino's resignation adds his name to a growing list of high-profile departures from the FBI, occurring amidst ongoing scrutiny and internal turbulence within the agency under the Trump administration. His exit marks the end of a unique chapter where a former vocal critic stepped inside to lead, navigating a complex path between his past commentary and his present responsibilities.
