FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, Trump’s bold outsider pick to shake up the bureau, announces his resignation in January 2026, raising questions about continuity in the reform effort.
Story Snapshot
- Dan Bongino confirms departure from FBI No. 2 role in January 2026 via X post on December 17, 2025.
- President Trump praises Bongino’s performance and hints at his return to media career.
- Bongino, former Secret Service agent with no prior FBI experience, breaks century-old tradition in the position.
- Andrew Bailey stays on as co-deputy director under Director Kash Patel.
Bongino Announces Departure
Dan Bongino posted on X on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, stating he will leave his FBI deputy director position in January 2026. He thanked President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the service opportunity.
Bongino expressed deepest gratitude to fellow Americans for the privilege of serving them. His statement ended with “God bless America, and all those who defend Her,” resonating with patriotic conservatives who value such devotion.
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
Trump Praises Bongino’s Service
President Trump hinted at Bongino’s exit earlier that day on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews. Trump said, “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.” This comment aligns with Bongino’s background as a prominent conservative media figure.
Trump’s endorsement underscores the administration’s trust in loyal outsiders to tackle entrenched bureaucracy, a key promise to supporters frustrated with deep-state resistance.
Bongino entered the role without prior FBI experience, a departure from over a century of tradition where deputy directors rose through bureau ranks, per the FBI Agents Association.
Trump selected him as a former Secret Service agent to bring fresh perspective and accountability. The position requires no Senate confirmation, allowing swift placement of aligned leaders.
Leadership Transition Under Patel
Fox News confirmed Andrew Bailey, co-deputy director since September 2025, will remain in the deputy role reporting to Director Kash Patel. This ensures short-term stability amid Bongino’s exit.
Patel, another Trump loyalist, continues driving reforms against past politicization. Conservatives view this lineup as essential to restoring FBI integrity after years of perceived bias under prior administrations.
The White House and FBI offered no immediate comment to Fox News Digital. Bongino’s tenure symbolized Trump’s commitment to placing proven patriots in key posts, bypassing career insiders often criticized for obstructing conservative agendas.
His departure prompts speculation on replacements who will uphold law and order priorities over globalist influences.
