Dan Bongino to Resign as FBI Deputy Director Amid Controversy and Media Speculation
Published 17 December 2025
Highlights
- Dan Bongino announced his resignation as FBI deputy director, effective January, thanking Trump and other officials for the opportunity.
- Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and media personality, was a controversial choice for the role due to his lack of FBI experience.
- His tenure included prioritizing the long-stalled investigation into the January 6 pipe bomb case, leading to a recent arrest.
- Bongino's departure follows reported clashes with Attorney General Pam Bondi over the release of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.
- Trump praised Bongino's work, suggesting he plans to return to his media career, which he left to join the FBI.
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Rewritten Article
Dan Bongino to Resign as FBI Deputy Director Amid Controversy and Media Speculation
Dan Bongino, the FBI's deputy director, has announced his resignation, effective January, marking the end of a tenure characterized by controversy and media attention. Appointed by former President Donald Trump in February, Bongino was an unconventional choice for the role, given his background as a former Secret Service agent and media commentator rather than a career FBI agent.
In a social media post, Bongino expressed gratitude to Trump, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Attorney General Pam Bondi for the opportunity to serve. "Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and accountability during his time in office.
Controversial Tenure and Investigative Priorities
Bongino's appointment was met with skepticism from the FBI Agents Association, which represents thousands of current and former agents. Despite this, he focused on revitalizing the investigation into the January 6 pipe bomb case, a move that recently led to an arrest. His efforts were praised by Director Patel, who highlighted Bongino's role in achieving "major breakthroughs" in long-unsolved cases.
However, Bongino's tenure was not without its challenges. He reportedly clashed with Attorney General Bondi over the handling of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, a case that has drawn significant public interest and speculation. Bongino, who once questioned Epstein's cause of death, later aligned with official findings that Epstein died by suicide.
Return to Media and Public Life
Bongino's decision to step down has fueled speculation about his future plans. Trump, who lauded Bongino's performance, suggested that he might return to his media career, which includes hosting popular shows and podcasts. Bongino himself hinted at this possibility, expressing a desire to return to a space where he can freely share his opinions.
As Bongino prepares to leave his post, the FBI faces ongoing challenges, including maintaining public trust and addressing internal concerns about leadership and direction. His departure opens the door for new leadership, potentially reshaping the bureau's approach to high-profile investigations and public engagement.
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Scenario Analysis
Bongino's resignation could lead to significant shifts within the FBI, particularly in how it handles politically sensitive investigations. His successor will likely face pressure to continue the momentum on cases like the pipe bomb investigation while navigating the bureau's complex relationship with the current administration. Experts suggest that Bongino's return to media could amplify his influence, potentially impacting public discourse on law enforcement and national security issues. As the FBI seeks to stabilize its leadership, the agency's ability to remain apolitical and focused on its mission will be closely scrutinized.
Dan Bongino, the FBI's deputy director, has announced his resignation, effective January, marking the end of a tenure characterized by controversy and media attention. Appointed by former President Donald Trump in February, Bongino was an unconventional choice for the role, given his background as a former Secret Service agent and media commentator rather than a career FBI agent.
In a social media post, Bongino expressed gratitude to Trump, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Attorney General Pam Bondi for the opportunity to serve. "Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and accountability during his time in office.
Controversial Tenure and Investigative Priorities
Bongino's appointment was met with skepticism from the FBI Agents Association, which represents thousands of current and former agents. Despite this, he focused on revitalizing the investigation into the January 6 pipe bomb case, a move that recently led to an arrest. His efforts were praised by Director Patel, who highlighted Bongino's role in achieving "major breakthroughs" in long-unsolved cases.
However, Bongino's tenure was not without its challenges. He reportedly clashed with Attorney General Bondi over the handling of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, a case that has drawn significant public interest and speculation. Bongino, who once questioned Epstein's cause of death, later aligned with official findings that Epstein died by suicide.
Return to Media and Public Life
Bongino's decision to step down has fueled speculation about his future plans. Trump, who lauded Bongino's performance, suggested that he might return to his media career, which includes hosting popular shows and podcasts. Bongino himself hinted at this possibility, expressing a desire to return to a space where he can freely share his opinions.
As Bongino prepares to leave his post, the FBI faces ongoing challenges, including maintaining public trust and addressing internal concerns about leadership and direction. His departure opens the door for new leadership, potentially reshaping the bureau's approach to high-profile investigations and public engagement.
What this might mean
Bongino's resignation could lead to significant shifts within the FBI, particularly in how it handles politically sensitive investigations. His successor will likely face pressure to continue the momentum on cases like the pipe bomb investigation while navigating the bureau's complex relationship with the current administration. Experts suggest that Bongino's return to media could amplify his influence, potentially impacting public discourse on law enforcement and national security issues. As the FBI seeks to stabilize its leadership, the agency's ability to remain apolitical and focused on its mission will be closely scrutinized.
