Dan Bongino Announces Departure as FBI Deputy Director

Thu Dec 18 2025 16:11:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Dan Bongino is set to leave his position as the FBI's Deputy Director in January 2025, thanking President Trump for the opportunity. The departure follows his controversial appointment and notable media presence.

Dan Bongino has announced that he will step down from his position as the FBI's Deputy Director in January. In his farewell message, Bongino expressed gratitude to President Trump and reflected on his service in the role since February. His appointment was met with skepticism among career agents due to his lack of experience within the agency. Bongino has historically been a strong Trump ally and has built a significant following through his media endeavors. He previously faced criticism for his public statements regarding key national events.

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 attorney general 'for the opportunity to serve with purpose.'

This announcement follows Trump's recent endorsement, praising Bongino for doing a 'great job' and expressing a desire for him to return to his podcasting career.

Bongino, who was appointed by Trump in February, has a background as a New York City police officer and a U.S. Secret Service agent. He has gained significant popularity through his podcast and media appearances.

His appointment was notable as it marked a departure from the FBI's tradition of selecting individuals with extensive agency experience, drawing criticism from the FBI Agents Association.

On social media, Bongino stated: 'I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January. I want to thank President Trump, AG [Pam] Bondi, and Director [Kash] Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you. God bless America, and all those who defend Her.'

Prior to his appointment, Bongino was vocal in promoting conspiracy theories regarding the 2020 presidential election, and he expressed uncertainty about the circumstances surrounding the death of Jeffrey Epstein in 2019, although he later retracted some of his more sensational claims after joining the administration.

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