FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced his upcoming resignation from his position in a social media post, signaling the end of a brief and sometimes turbulent tenure as the bureau’s second-in-command. President Donald Trump suggested that Bongino desired to return to his previous role hosting a popular right-wing podcast before joining the FBI.
Bongino’s background as a former New York City police officer and Secret Service member made his appointment to the FBI’s deputy director position unconventional, as it historically had been held by career agents who had progressed through the ranks. Despite objections from the FBI Agents Association, Bongino was appointed with assurances from FBI Director Kash Patel that a career agent would eventually take over the role.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve, Bongino thanked Trump, Patel, and Attorney General Pam Bondi in a social media post. In response, Patel praised Bongino as an exceptional partner in the bureau’s restoration efforts, highlighting his significant contributions to the organization’s mission.
During his time as a podcaster, Bongino espoused various conspiracy theories, including those related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot by Trump supporters and the late Jeffrey Epstein. Following controversial statements, particularly regarding the pipe bombs planted at party offices prior to the riot, Bongino retracted his claims after a suspect was arrested in connection with the case. Additionally, concerns arose regarding Bongino’s promotion of conspiracy theories, particularly related to Epstein, which clashed with official DOJ and FBI positions.
The FBI’s decision to retract a promise to release Epstein-related investigative files in a memo jointly issued with the Justice Department in July further fueled controversy surrounding Bongino’s tenure. This move contradicted theories supported by some of Trump’s followers, who contested the official findings regarding Epstein’s death and the existence of an incriminating client list.