The FBI’s second-in-command is stepping down early next year, ending a tenure that sparked intense attention inside and outside the bureau.
According to Fox News, Dan Bongino, who has served as FBI deputy director since being appointed by President Donald Trump, confirmed Wednesday that he will leave his position in January.
His announcement followed growing questions about his future in the role.
In a post on X, Bongino addressed the nation directly.
“I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January,” he wrote. “I want to thank President [Donald] Trump, AG [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 statement, President Donald Trump appeared to signal the upcoming departure while speaking to reporters on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews.
“Dan did a great job,” Trump said. “I think he wants to go back to his show.”
The exit marks a notable moment for the bureau. Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and conservative media figure, had no prior FBI experience before President Donald Trump selected him for the deputy director post.
Historically, the role had been held exclusively by career FBI officials for more than 100 years, according to the FBI Agents Association. The job does not require Senate confirmation.
Fox News reported that Andrew Bailey, who has been serving as co-deputy director since September, will remain in that role as he continues to report to FBI Director Kash Patel.
The announcement leaves several questions hanging — including what may come next for Bongino and how the bureau will navigate the transition.
For now, the FBI has not issued further comment, and no additional details have been released surrounding the timing or circumstances of the departure.
This story is developing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.
