FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino to Depart in January

Dan Bongino, the Deputy Director of the FBI, announced he will resign from his position in January 2024. This decision follows a brief and often controversial tenure as the bureau’s second highest-ranking official. Bongino made the announcement via social media on Wednesday, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Bongino might wish to return to his previous role as a podcaster.

Prior to his appointment at the FBI, Bongino hosted a popular right-wing podcast. Trump remarked, “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show,” while speaking to reporters. Bongino’s career has included roles as a New York City police officer and a member of the Secret Service, making his appointment to the FBI’s No. 2 position somewhat unconventional, as it is typically filled by career agents.

Controversial Tenure and Conspiracy Theories

Bongino’s selection faced opposition from the FBI Agents Association, which represents approximately 14,000 current agents. Despite the pushback, Kash Patel, the FBI Director, assured that Bongino’s appointment would not undermine the integrity of the bureau. In his resignation announcement, Bongino expressed gratitude to Trump, Patel, and Attorney General Pam Bondi for the opportunity to serve.

Throughout his time at the FBI, Bongino’s previous promotion of conspiracy theories has raised concerns. Notably, he questioned the circumstances surrounding the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, suggesting that the planting of pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee offices was an “inside job” orchestrated by the FBI. This claim was retracted after the FBI arrested a suspect in connection with the case.

“I had been paid to voice controversial opinions,” Bongino stated in a Fox News interview, reflecting on his past remarks.

Challenges and Backlash

Bongino’s tenure has faced scrutiny since July 2023, particularly regarding the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In that month, the Justice Department and FBI leadership released a memo that contradicted earlier commitments to disclose investigative files on Epstein. This memo reignited tensions among Trump supporters who adhere to various conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein’s death and alleged connections to powerful figures.

The memo declared there was no incriminating “client list” to release and affirmed that Epstein died by suicide in his jail cell. This clarification did not sit well with many, further complicating Bongino’s position within the bureau.

As Bongino prepares to exit, his legacy at the FBI will likely be viewed through the lens of his controversial past and the political climate during his time in office. His departure marks a significant moment for the bureau, as it continues to navigate complex challenges in a polarized environment.