Dan Bongino Steps Down as FBI Deputy Director

Dan Bongino has announced he will resign from his position as FBI Deputy Director in January, ending a tenure that lasted less than a year. Bongino was appointed to the role by President Donald Trump in February 2025, making him one of the most unconventional selections for the position in the agency's history.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino & Director Kash Patel / File

Bongino's background differs significantly from traditional FBI leadership. Before his appointment, he served as a New York City police officer and a US Secret Service agent. In recent years, he transitioned into media, building a substantial following through his podcast and various media appearances. Trump stated that Bongino performed well in the role and indicated the deputy director intends to return to his podcast.

His appointment to lead the FBI's deputy directorship was met with substantial opposition within the agency. The FBI Agents Association, which represents approximately 14,000 current and former agents, formally opposed his selection, citing his lack of prior experience within the FBI and his departure from the traditional model of promoting career agents to senior leadership positions. The appointment challenged decades of precedent where the deputy director role was reserved exclusively for career-track FBI officials.

Despite being a longtime Trump ally, Bongino's time in the position was marked by internal friction and controversy. In July, tensions escalated significantly when Bongino expressed frustration over the government's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, leading to a contentious meeting between him and Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the matter. This dispute highlighted ongoing disagreements within the Trump administration over how sensitive cases should be managed and what information should be released.

Bongino announced his departure through a social media post on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to Trump, Attorney General Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve in the role. In his statement, he thanked fellow Americans for the privilege to serve them and emphasized his commitment to those who defend the nation.