Fri Dec 19 00:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Bongino to Step Down as FBI Deputy Director Amidst Controversy

WASHINGTON D.C. – Dan Bongino, the former podcast host and staunch Trump ally, announced his departure from his role as Deputy Director of the FBI, effective January. The announcement, made via social media on Wednesday, comes after a controversial tenure marked by opposition from within the agency and amplified conspiracy theories.

“I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January,” Bongino stated in his post, thanking President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Director Kash Patel for the opportunity. He did not provide a reason for his resignation.

Prior to his appointment to the role by Trump in February, Bongino built a large following through his podcast and conservative media appearances. His background as a former New York City police officer and Secret Service agent assigned to protect Barack Obama was overshadowed by his lack of experience within the FBI. The FBI Agents Association, representing thousands of current and former agents, publicly opposed his appointment.

President Trump publicly acknowledged Bongino’s departure earlier on Wednesday, stating that the former podcast host “did a great job in office, and wants to go back to his show.”

During his time in office, Bongino prioritized the investigation into the January 6th pipe bomb incident, which ultimately led to an arrest earlier this month. Director Patel lauded Bongino’s efforts, stating he “served as the people’s voice for transparency” and delivered “major breakthroughs in long unsolved cases like the pipe bomb investigation.”

However, Bongino’s tenure was not without controversy. He previously echoed disinformation and conspiracy theories, including claims about the 2020 election results. He also appeared to reverse his stance on the death of Jeffrey Epstein, ultimately concluding that the sex offender died by suicide after reviewing the case file. This conclusion, supported by a Justice Department and FBI memo, reportedly caused friction between Bongino and Attorney General Bondi, according to CBS News.

Bondi, who oversees the FBI, acknowledged Bongino’s service in a brief social media post, stating that “Americans are safer because of Bongino’s FBI service.”

Bongino’s departure raises questions about the future direction of the FBI and the impact of political appointees within the agency.

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