On Wednesday, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced his resignation effective next month, a move that follows a turbulent tenure marked by clashes with the Justice Department and his own controversial public statements.
Unexpected Resignation Amid Controversy
Bongino’s departure was expected and will be one of the highest‑profile exits of the Trump administration. The announcement came as FBI leadership faced criticism over Director Kash Patel’s use of a government plane for personal travel and social media posts about active investigations.
In a post on X, Bongino thanked the bureau for the “opportunity to serve with purpose.” He did not specify a exact date in January when he would leave or reveal future plans.
Background and Controversial Statements
Bongino was an unconventional pick for the FBI’s No. 2 position, which traditionally has been held by a career agent. Prior to his appointment, he had worked as a New York City police officer and Secret Service agent, but neither he nor Patel had FBI experience.
Installed in March by Trump after years as a conservative podcast host, Bongino had repeatedly criticized FBI leadership and promoted conspiracy theories about the Jeffrey Epstein sex‑trafficking case and the pipe bombs found in Washington on Jan. 6, 2021.
Once in the role, he struggled to satisfy Trump’s base, which expected swift reforms and revelations of hidden truths. Regarding Epstein, he had earlier challenged the official ruling that the financier had taken his own life in a New York jail after his 2019 arrest. In a Fox News interview, he stated: “I’ve seen the whole file. He killed himself.”
Bongino also speculated last year that the Jan. 6 pipe bombs were an “inside job” and part of a “massive cover‑up.” After the FBI arrested a 30‑year‑old Virginia man with no connection to the federal government earlier this month, he was questioned about those comments. He replied: “I was paid in the past for my opinions. One day I will be back in that space but that’s not what I’m paid for now. I’m paid to be your deputy director and we base investigations on facts.”
Reactions from Trump and the FBI
President Donald Trump responded to questions about Bongino’s fate earlier Wednesday: “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.”
Key Takeaways
- Bongino announced his resignation for January, citing gratitude for the “opportunity to serve with purpose.”
- His tenure was marked by clashes over Epstein files and earlier pipe‑bomb conspiracy claims.
- Trump praised his work and hinted he may return to his podcast.
The resignation underscores the turbulence within the FBI’s leadership under the Trump administration and highlights the challenges of balancing public statements with investigative responsibilities.
