President Donald Trump appeared to confirm reports that Dan Bongino, deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, plans to step down from his role, telling reporters Wednesday that Bongino “did a great job” and “wants to go back to his show.”
Trump made the remarks while answering questions on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews. Earlier reports indicated that Bongino, the bureau’s number two official under Director Kash Patel, intends to formally leave his position early next year.
MS Now cited eight sources familiar with the matter, noting Bongino would not be returning to the FBI headquarters this month.
Dan Bongino, 49, is a former Secret Service agent and New York Police Department officer who transitioned into media work over the past decade.
He has hosted several shows, including guest hosting stints on The Sean Hannity Show and The Mark Levin Show, before launching The Bongino Report and The Dan Bongino Show.
Bongino’s role at the FBI has been relatively high profile in recent months, serving as a key deputy to Director Patel. His tenure coincides with heightened scrutiny of the bureau amid ongoing political debates and operational reforms.
Bongino did not directly confirm his departure to MS Now, responding, “Print whatever you’d like. No one believes you anyway. Thanks.” The report suggested he had considered announcing his exit on Friday, December 19.
Security and law enforcement experts noted that transitions at senior levels of the FBI can impact ongoing investigations and administrative priorities.
“Deputy directors play a crucial role in overseeing operations and internal management,” said Jennifer McCallum, a former federal law enforcement analyst. “A departure like this can create a temporary vacuum that requires careful handling.”
Political analysts also highlighted the significance of Bongino’s media background.
“He’s one of the few senior law enforcement officials with a well established media presence,” said Robert Ellis, a political communications consultant. “Moving back to the private sector may signal his interest in shaping public narratives outside the bureau.”
Historically, FBI deputy directors have served an average of four to six years, though departures before term completion are not uncommon.
According to a 2024 report by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, approximately 30 percent of deputy directors over the past two decades have left for private sector opportunities or media engagements.
Bongino’s exit would align with this trend of high profile officials moving into public commentary roles. Locally, former colleagues described Bongino as a dedicated law enforcement professional.
“Dan brought energy and discipline to his role, balancing operational demands with public engagement,” said one senior FBI official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of internal personnel matters.
Media industry voices also recognized his potential return to broadcasting. “Dan has a unique ability to connect law enforcement expertise with mainstream audiences,” said Laura Benson, a radio programming executive.
“His shows have consistently garnered high ratings, and this move could expand his influence in national discourse.” Bongino’s departure may prompt a leadership reshuffle within the FBI, including potential appointments for acting deputy director or an accelerated recruitment process.
Analysts anticipate that any transition will be carefully managed to maintain operational continuity. Observers also noted that Bongino’s exit could energize his media ventures, potentially expanding the audience for his shows and commentary.
“With his law enforcement credentials, he can bridge the gap between insider knowledge and public discussion,” said McCallum.
As Dan Bongino prepares to leave the FBI early next year, his departure underscores the fluidity between public service and media engagement among high profile officials.
While his next steps appear focused on broadcasting, the transition also signals a period of adjustment for the bureau’s leadership team.
President Trump’s acknowledgment adds further attention to the move, highlighting Bongino’s dual roles in law enforcement and media.
