8 months ago
FBI Deputy Director Bongino to Step Down
Dan Bongino, who is the second-in-command at the FBI, announced that he will be leaving his job in January 2026.
He thanked President Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for their support.
Bongino, who is also a former Secret Service agent and podcaster, has been known for his controversial statements and conspiracy theories.
President Trump praised Bongino's work and hinted that he might be returning to his podcasting career.
The news of Bongino's exit started to emerge after reports that he told confidants he plans to leave early in the new year.
Bongino's decision comes after he expressed the struggles he faced while serving in his role, including being separated from his family.
Dan Bongino, the Deputy Director of the FBI, announced he will step down in January 2026.
Bongino thanked President Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for their support.
President Trump praised Bongino's job and hinted at his return to podcasting.
Bongino has a background as a former Secret Service agent, NYPD officer, and podcaster.
Bongino has been criticized for promoting conspiracy theories and making inflammatory remarks about political figures.
- Who
- Dan Bongino, Deputy Director of the FBI
- What
- Announcement of stepping down from his position
- Where
- FBI headquarters
- When
- January 2026, with the announcement made on December 17, 2025
- Why
- Not explicitly stated, but hinted at a return to his podcasting career
Bongino's Supporters
Critics of Bongino
Bongino's Performance
Bongino's Supporters
Bongino did a great job and is praised for his service.
Critics of Bongino
Bongino has been criticized for promoting conspiracy theories and political bias.
Bongino's Future Plans
Bongino's Supporters
Bongino is returning to his podcasting career, which is a positive move for his personal brand.
Critics of Bongino
Bongino's return to podcasting may be seen as a step back from public service to partisan commentary.
Key facts
- Dan Bongino
- Deputy Director of the FBI
- Expected Departure
- January 2026
- Announcement Date
- December 17, 2025
- Sources
- Associates, MS Now, and Bongino's X post
- Trump's Comment
- Praised Bongino's job and hinted at his return to podcasting
- Bongino's Background
- Former Secret Service agent, NYPD officer, and podcaster
- Controversial Statements
- Promoted conspiracy theories and made inflammatory remarks about political figures
Timeline
Dan Bongino's work hours were significantly reduced after Kash Patel's appointment as co-deputy director.
Dan Bongino's resignation was likely influenced by the appointment of Andrew Bailey as co-deputy director, which suggested a loss of power and control for Bongino.
Dan Bongino's resignation was likely influenced by the appointment of Andrew Bailey as co-deputy director, which suggested a loss of power and control for Bongino.
Dan Bongino, the FBI's second-in-command, announced his resignation effective January 2026.
Quotes
Dan Bongino
FBI Deputy Director and former conservative podcast host
“I was paid in the past, Sean, for my opinions, that’s clear. And one day, I’ll be back in that space but that’s not what I’m paid for now. I’m paid to be your deputy director, and we base investigations on facts.”
indianexpress.com
Donald Trump
President of the United States
“Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.”
indianexpress.com
Kash Patel
FBI Director
“Dan Bongino had not only completed his mission — he far exceeded it. We will miss him but I’m thankful he accepted the call to serve. Our country is better and safer for it.”
indianexpress.com
Pam Bondi
Attorney General
“Thank you, Dan”
indianexpress.com
Sources
Is Dan Bongino really leaving the FBI? Trump reacts
Dan Bongino to step down as FBI deputy director after 10 months. Here's why
Dan Bongino will leave FBI; Donald Trump says he wants ‘to go back to his show’
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino says he plans to resign next month as bureau’s No 2 official





