In brief
Bongino, appointed by Trump in February, confirmed he will leave his position as deputy director of the FBI in January. He expressed gratitude to Trump, the FBI director, and the US attorney general for the opportunity to serve. His tenure saw significant developments, including attention to long-unsolved cases. Bongino has built a following through his media presence, although his appointment faced criticism due to his lack of prior FBI experience.
Dan Bongino has said he will leave his role as the FBI's deputy director in January.
In a post on X, he thanked President Donald Trump, as well as the director of the FBI and the US attorney general for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Bongino did not state why he was stepping down.
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump praised Bongino, indicating that he wants to go back to his show. Bongino, appointed by Trump in February, gained popularity through his podcast and other media appearances. He previously served as a New York City police officer and a US Secret Service agent protecting Barack Obama.
Bongino's appointment was viewed as surprising, lacking previous experience with the FBI and opposed by the FBI Agents Association representing about 14,000 current and former agents. In his social media announcement he stated: I want to thank President Trump, AG [Pam] Bondi, and Director [Kash] Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. He also expressed gratitude to the American public.
Before his appointment, Bongino echoed disinformation regarding Trump's false claims about the 2020 election and focused on the investigation into the January 6 pipe bombs, labeling it as an inside job. After taking office, he prioritized this investigation.
In recent developments, a suspect was arrested in connection with the pipe bomb case, which had remained unsolved for nearly six years. FBI Director Patel praised Bongino for his contributions, commending him as a vociferous advocate for transparency.
Bongino previously questioned the circumstances surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death but later acknowledged he had reviewed the case file and confirmed Epstein's suicide. This position shifted as the FBI, under his leadership, released findings that asserted Epstein acted alone, a position disputed by many of Trump's supporters.
Attorney General Bondi noted that Americans are safer due to Bongino's service at the FBI.
