On a recent episode of his wildly popular podcast, the right-wing provocateur Dan Bongino asserted that he would soon be able to show that the pipe bombs found near the Capitol on the day of the January 6, 2021, attack were "an inside job" and that "the F.B.I. knows who this person is." This claim has been circulating among the right, despite the fact that, after four years of effort and a substantial $500,000 reward, the F.B.I. has been unable to identify a suspect.
Nevertheless, Mr. Bongino suggested with furious certainty that the incoming F.B.I. director, Kash Patel, would soon reveal the answer, stating, "We’re in charge now," in an excited whisper. His conspiratorial-minded views are characteristic of his show and offer a remarkably vivid illustration of his likely approach when he assumes the No. 2 position at the F.B.I.
As the deputy director, Dan Bongino will effectively serve as the chief operating officer of the premier U.S. law enforcement agency. This role involves overseeing the most sensitive cases in the nation, granting him access to vast amounts of highly sensitive intelligence. Additionally, he will manage the daily influx of rumors, speculation, and false accusations that F.B.I. agents receive from informants and the public.
While discussing his new position on Monday, Mr. Bongino, a former political candidate who found success as a combative and perpetually online Trump supporter, was emotional. He acknowledged that joining the highest echelons of the bureau would require him to shift his approach significantly.
Dan Bongino's outspoken theories and his ascension to a significant role within the F.B.I. highlight the ongoing tension surrounding the investigation into the January 6 attack. As he prepares to step into his new role, it remains to be seen how his influence will shape the agency's future operations and its handling of sensitive intelligence.
