Dan Bongino stepping down as FBI Deputy Director

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced he will leave the bureau in January, ending a tenure that lasted less than a year. Bongino disclosed the decision in a social-media post shortly after President Donald Trump publicly remarked that Bongino “wants to go back to his show.”

Trump appointed Bongino to the FBI’s second-highest position in March. His short time in the role was marked by internal disagreements, most notably over the Department of Justice’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Those clashes, according to people familiar with the matter, had fueled speculation that his departure was imminent.

In his announcement, Bongino expressed gratitude for the opportunity but did not give a specific reason for leaving.

“I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose,” he wrote. “Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you.”

Media Career and Law-Enforcement Background

Before joining the FBI, Bongino was best known for his media work. He hosted the conservative radio program The Bongino Report and later fronted Fox News’ Unfiltered with Dan Bongino, after years of appearing as a guest commentator on the network.

His law-enforcement experience began in New York City, where he served as an NYPD officer for four years. Bongino joined the U.S. Secret Service in 1999 as a special agent, eventually serving in the Presidential Protection Division for Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His time in the Secret Service later drew scrutiny after he claimed to have had access to “high-level discussions” during the Obama administration while running for political office.

Uncertain Path to a Successor

The White House has not indicated who may replace Bongino. Traditionally, the FBI deputy director role is filled by a career agent and is responsible for managing the bureau’s day-to-day operations.

Trump praised Bongino’s performance earlier in the week, saying he “did a great job,” but offered no details about next steps. With Bongino’s exit, the administration faces the task of installing a new deputy at a time when the bureau continues to confront politically sensitive investigations and internal leadership challenges.