Dan Bongino, the former Fox News host turned FBI Deputy Director, has confirmed he will step down from his post next month.
The announcement came after just nine months in the role, sparking speculation about his future plans and the dynamics within the bureau.
Laura Ingraham Weighs In
Fox News host Laura Ingraham addressed Bongino’s exit on Wednesday during The Ingraham Angle.
“And the first big departure from the administration was announced late today: After only nine months on the job, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino is stepping aside,” she said.
Ingraham added with a chuckle, “Now, this is not surprising.
He loved his lucrative media life, and he wants to get back to it.”
Trump Offers His Take
Former President Donald Trump shared similar sentiments when asked about Bongino’s departure.
“Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show,” Trump told reporters.
Bongino later confirmed the move on X, thanking Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to “serve with purpose.”
From Media to Bureaucracy
Bongino, 51, was once one of Fox News’ most right-leaning hosts and was personally chosen by Trump for the FBI deputy role.
He left Fox in early 2023 but remained a vocal commentator on issues like the classified documents known as the Epstein Files.
His advocacy for their release reportedly put him at odds with other administration officials.
Tensions Over the Epstein Files
During his time at the bureau, Bongino faced scrutiny for his stance on the Epstein Files.
The Department of Justice declined to release additional materials over the summer, despite Bongino’s ongoing campaign for transparency.
Sources indicated that his position created friction with other senior officials, with some suggesting his departure was imminent.
Previous Considerations to Leave
Bongino had reportedly contemplated leaving the FBI as far back as July, CBS News reported.
He had attended a White House meeting with Attorney General Bondi and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles following the DOJ’s decision on the Epstein materials.
According to reports, the meeting resulted in a tense confrontation, paving the way for Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey to be appointed as co-deputy director soon after.
Career Highlights
Before joining the FBI, Bongino had a diverse career in law enforcement.
He served as a New York police officer and as a U.S. Secret Service agent before transitioning into media, where he became a prominent conservative voice.
His brief tenure at the bureau marked a rare move from media to federal law enforcement.
What’s Next
Bongino has not yet announced specific plans for his post-FBI life, though it is widely expected that he will return to media.
With his outspoken presence and previous platform, many anticipate he will resume his commentary on political and law enforcement matters in the near future.
Looking Ahead
As Bongino prepares to leave, attention now turns to the bureau’s leadership and how the role of deputy director will be filled moving forward, particularly given the continued scrutiny over high-profile cases and classified materials.
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