On Wednesday, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced his decision to step down from the bureau, effective January. This significant move comes as Bongino expressed his gratitude in a statement shared on X, thanking notable figures such as President Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve in such a pivotal role.
Bongino's appointment as the No. 2 post at the FBI was seen as unusual, given that this critical position typically requires a seasoned career agent with extensive experience in the bureau. Neither Bongino nor his superior, Patel, possessed prior FBI experience. However, Bongino brought a wealth of law enforcement knowledge to the role, having served as a police officer and later as a Secret Service agent. His vocal support for Trump further distinguished him in this significant position.
Over the past decade, Bongino has gained notoriety as a pro-Trump, far-right podcaster, often promoting conspiracy theories, some of which directly involved the FBI. He has been openly critical of the bureau, aligning himself with a narrative suggesting it has been weaponized against conservatives, even going so far as to label its agents as "thugs." His time at the FBI was not without its challenges, including a notable clash with Justice Department leadership regarding the administration's management of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Despite the tumultuous nature of his tenure, Bongino's time at the FBI also included significant accomplishments. Earlier this month, under his oversight, authorities arrested the individual believed to be responsible for placing two pipe bombs near the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican committees, just hours before the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
In a unique arrangement, Bongino has operated alongside a co-deputy director since the summer, when the Trump administration appointed Andrew Bailey, a former attorney general of Missouri, to support him in the No. 2 role. This partnership highlights the atypical nature of Bongino's leadership structure within the FBI.
Before the announcement of Bongino's departure, President Trump commended him during a brief interaction with reporters, stating, "Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show." This remark encapsulates the mixed legacy Bongino leaves behind as he prepares to transition away from his role at the FBI.