Dan Bongino Resigns as FBI Deputy Director Amid Controversy/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced he will resign in January, ending a controversial tenure marked by clashes over sensitive investigations and prior media claims. Bongino, a former conservative podcast host, was appointed by President Trump to reform the agency. His resignation follows internal tensions, public scrutiny, and limited support from Trump’s base.
Bongino’s Resignation: Quick Looks
- FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino will step down in January.
- Bongino, a former NYPD officer and Secret Service agent, lacked FBI experience.
- His appointment came amid promises to overhaul the bureau under Trump.
- Bongino faced internal DOJ conflict over the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
- He had publicly challenged Epstein’s suicide ruling before joining the FBI.
- As deputy, he confirmed the official findings, angering some supporters.
- Trump praised Bongino, saying, “He did a great job.”
- Bongino’s exit follows criticism of Director Kash Patel’s ethics issues.
- A co-deputy director was appointed in August amid rising internal pressure.
- Former AG Pam Bondi and Trump allies praised Bongino’s service.
Deep Look
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino to Resign After Tumultuous Tenure
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Dan Bongino, the controversial FBI Deputy Director appointed by President Donald Trump, announced Wednesday that he will resign next month, ending a turbulent period in the bureau’s leadership. His resignation will mark one of the highest-profile exits from the FBI during Trump’s second term.
Bongino, a former New York police officer and Secret Service agent turned popular conservative commentator, was installed in March 2025 as part of Trump’s push to reshape the FBI. His time at the bureau, however, was defined as much by conflict and controversy as it was by reform.
In a brief statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), Bongino said he was grateful for the opportunity to serve, but he did not specify the exact date of his departure or outline his future plans. President Trump, asked about the news earlier in the day, said, “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.”
From Podcaster to FBI Leadership
Bongino’s appointment was unconventional from the start. The FBI’s No. 2 role has traditionally been filled by career agents with deep experience in the bureau’s operations. Bongino had no prior FBI background and was known for using his podcast and media appearances to sharply criticize federal law enforcement and promote conspiracy theories.
He frequently challenged the official narrative surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death, and claimed that high-profile events like the January 6 pipe bomb incident were part of “massive cover-ups.” But once in office, Bongino had to adjust his public rhetoric.
In a Fox News interview following his review of the Epstein file, Bongino walked back previous assertions: “I’ve seen the whole file. He killed himself.”
That statement — a reversal from years of speculation — drew backlash from Trump-aligned influencers who expected Bongino to uncover hidden truths. In another case, he had suggested that the pipe bombs discovered on January 6 were an “inside job,” but FBI investigators later arrested a 30-year-old Virginia man with no federal ties, prompting further criticism from Bongino’s former audience.
“I’m paid to be your deputy director, and we base investigations on facts,” Bongino told Sean Hannity, acknowledging his shift in responsibility.
Internal Tensions and Political Fallout
Behind the scenes, Bongino’s tenure was marred by tensions with the Justice Department, particularly over the Epstein case. A heated exchange with Attorney General Pam Bondi at the White House in July reportedly left Bongino disillusioned with the administration’s handling of the investigation. In the days following, he went silent on social media, fueling speculation of an imminent resignation.
Right-wing activist Laura Loomer, a close Trump ally, posted at the time that Bongino was “seriously thinking about resigning.”
In August, the administration added Andrew Bailey, former Missouri Attorney General, as a co-deputy director, a move widely seen as an attempt to ease internal pressures and stabilize leadership amid swirling controversies.
Bongino’s departure also comes as FBI Director Kash Patel continues to face ethics scrutiny for his use of a government plane for personal travel and social media activity related to ongoing investigations.
Reactions from Trump Allies
Bongino’s resignation has drawn support from several Trump administration figures. Director Kash Patel praised Bongino on social media, writing: “Dan far exceeded his mission… Our country is better and safer for it.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had previously clashed with Bongino, publicly thanked him Wednesday. “Americans are safer because of Dan’s service. Thank you, Dan,” she posted on X.
Despite the praise, Bongino’s inability to deliver sweeping reforms quickly frustrated some of Trump’s base. His transition from commentator to federal official revealed the challenges of aligning political rhetoric with law enforcement responsibilities.
What’s Next for Bongino?
Trump hinted that Bongino may return to his media roots. As a well-known voice in conservative circles, he built a loyal following by challenging government institutions and promising transparency — a brand that may regain traction once he’s no longer bound by official responsibilities.
His departure could signal a shift in Trump’s approach to FBI leadership as the 2026 midterm elections near, with new appointments expected and pressure mounting to demonstrate visible reforms.
Whether Bongino returns to podcasting, takes a different media role, or reenters politics remains to be seen. What’s clear is that his brief time at the top of the FBI left a mark — controversial, divisive, and highly political.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.