Dan Bongino’s departure from the FBI deputy director role marks the end of a groundbreaking tenure that shattered over a century of bureau tradition by placing a conservative media personality in the agency’s second-highest position.
Story Highlights
- Bongino announces resignation from FBI deputy director position effective January 2026
- First non-FBI agent to hold the deputy director role in over 100 years of bureau history
- Former Secret Service agent brought outsider perspective to traditionally insular FBI leadership
- Trump indicates Bongino plans to return to his popular conservative media show
Historic Tenure Comes to Close
Dan Bongino announced his resignation as FBI Deputy Director on December 17, 2025, via social media platform X, expressing gratitude to President Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel.
His departure in January 2026 concludes a remarkable chapter where Trump placed a conservative media figure in the bureau’s second-highest position. Bongino thanked Americans for the privilege to serve and invoked God’s blessing on the nation and its defenders.
Holy CRAAAAP!
Well that didn't last long.
Dan Bongino will be leaving the FBI effective January.
I can't WAIT to hear everything he talks about on air.
Hopefully he doesn't sign an NDA. pic.twitter.com/k7ZXi5uBsA
— Mila Joy (@Milajoy) December 17, 2025
Breaking Century-Old FBI Tradition
Bongino’s appointment represented a dramatic departure from FBI protocol, as he became the first person without bureau experience to serve as deputy director in over a century.
According to the FBI Agents Association, this position had traditionally been filled by career agents who worked their way up through the ranks. The deputy director role doesn’t require Senate confirmation, allowing Trump to bypass potential legislative opposition to this unconventional choice.
Return to Media Anticipated
President Trump hinted at Bongino’s future plans during remarks at Joint Base Andrews, suggesting the deputy director wants to return to his media career.
Trump praised Bongino’s performance, stating “Dan did a great job” during his tenure at the bureau. This transition aligns with expectations that Bongino would eventually return to his successful conservative commentary platform, where he built a substantial following before joining the administration.
Succession Plans in Motion
Andrew Bailey, who has served as co-deputy director since September 2025, will continue in the deputy role under FBI Director Kash Patel’s leadership. This transition ensures continuity in bureau operations while maintaining the Trump administration’s commitment to reforming federal law enforcement agencies.
Fox News confirmed Bailey’s ongoing role, though neither the White House nor FBI immediately responded to requests for additional comment about the leadership change.
