Dan Bongino, a former Fox News commentator and vocal Trump supporter, is stepping into a position of significant power as the newly appointed assistant director of the FBI.
His selection by Donald Trump has sparked both praise and controversy, given his history of fiery rhetoric, loyalty to conservative causes, and frequent clashes with the media.
A Polarizing Figure with a Partisan Stance
Bongino, a former NYPD officer and Secret Service agent, has built a reputation as a no-holds-barred political commentator.
Known for his passionate, often expletive-laden tirades against Democrats, he has positioned himself as a warrior in the conservative movement.
His podcast, where he often rails against the political left, recently featured an emotional episode titled “Cutesy Time Is Over.”
Critics argue that Bongino is even more controversial than newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel, who narrowly secured Senate confirmation.
Bongino’s extensive commentary history, particularly during Trump’s first term, demonstrates a deep commitment to conservative retribution, especially in response to the contentious Brett Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination process.
“Owning the Libs” and the Politics of Retaliation
During the Kavanaugh hearings, Bongino made his mission clear: defeating liberal opposition at all costs.
“You have to lose, I’m sorry. We win, you lose. The new rules are in effect,” he declared, solidifying his dedication to the right-wing cause.
His commitment extended to amplifying election fraud claims, hosting figures like Rudy Giuliani on his NRATV show to promote conspiracy theories.
When Giuliani claimed that Venezuelans linked to Nicolás Maduro were manipulating U.S. votes, Bongino responded with incredulity: “That’s insane.”
Fearmongering and Survivalist Marketing
Beyond politics, Bongino has used his platform to promote a sense of imminent crisis.
He frequently warns of dark forces threatening the nation while marketing survivalist products to his audience.
“Folks, there’s an emergency around the corner every single time.
Do you trust the people in charge to tell you it’s coming? I don’t!” he proclaimed while promoting emergency food kits from Patriot Supply.
His approach, blending political fervor with financial opportunism, has drawn criticism from those who accuse him of exploiting fear for profit.
A Direct Line to Trump and Media Clashes
Bongino’s rise in conservative media impressed Trump, who frequently appeared on his show.
He also staunchly defended Trump against allegations stemming from the Russia probe, calling the investigation a “sting operation.”
His aggressive style extends to interactions with the press, once telling a Florida reporter, “Go f*** yourself, you piece of s***!” during a dispute over his failed congressional campaign.
Despite unsuccessful runs for office in Maryland, Bongino found his niche in media, hosting a Fox News program before launching his successful podcast in 2023.
From Obama Critic to FBI Deputy Director
Bongino has long been a fierce critic of Barack Obama, whom he once protected as a Secret Service agent.
He has repeatedly linked Obama to various right-wing conspiracy theories, including election fraud and the alleged bribery of Joe Biden.
Following his appointment, conservative commentator Benny Johnson celebrated, posting, “Oh man, the deep state is cooked.”
Bongino himself became emotional when discussing his new role, sharing with his audience that he “kinda broke down” after Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Kash Patel offered him the position.
“I’m going to accept the role proudly as the deputy director—the Number Two spot at the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” he said.
Clashing with Senate Democrats and the Media
Not everyone is celebrating Bongino’s appointment. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a vocal Trump critic, lambasted the decision, accusing Trump of “spitting in the face of Senate Republicans.”
Murphy further claimed that Bongino’s career revolves around fearmongering and selling survivalist gear.
“Owning the libs is a lifestyle,” he quipped.
With Bongino stepping into this powerful role, his influence over the FBI’s direction—and its relationship with political opponents—remains to be seen.
What’s clear is that his appointment marks a new chapter in the agency’s leadership, one that will undoubtedly keep the political world on edge.