Washington, DC – December 18, 2025 – In a surprising turn, President Donald Trump has confirmed that Dan Bongino, the FBI’s Deputy Director, is planning to leave his high-profile role early next year. Trump praised Bongino’s work, stating he “did a great job” but believes the former podcaster “wants to go back to his show.” The announcement follows reports that Bongino has cleared his office and informed confidants of his departure plans.
Deputy Director Bongino Swearing In — FBI
Dan Bongino’s Rapid Rise and Controversial FBI Tenure
Appointed FBI Deputy Director in February 2025 by FBI Director Kash Patel under President Trump, Dan Bongino made history as the first person without prior FBI experience to hold the No. 2 position. A former Secret Service agent, NYPD officer, and bestselling author, Bongino built a massive following as a conservative commentator. With The Dan Bongino Show, one of America’s top podcasts before he paused it to join the administration.
Bongino’s appointment drew criticism for his past promotion of conspiracy theories, including claims about the 2020 election and January 6 pipe bombs. Once in office, he shifted tone, emphasizing facts in investigations like Jeffrey Epstein’s death (confirming suicide) and celebrating arrests in long-stalled cases.
His tenure wasn’t without drama: Clashes with Attorney General Pam Bondi over Epstein files in July nearly led to resignation. And the August appointment of a co-deputy director fueled exit speculation.
Trump Confirms Bongino’s Exit: “He Wants to Go Back to His Show”
On December 17, Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews: “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.” This echoed reports from MS NOW that Bongino plans to formally depart early 2026, possibly announcing as soon as December 19.
Bongino, when approached, responded cryptically: “Print whatever you’d like. No one believes you anyway. Thanks.” The FBI declined comment.
Sources indicate personal factors, including strain on his marriage from the demanding role, may influence the decision. Bongino’s lucrative media career – worth an estimated $160 million – awaits his return.
What’s Next for Dan Bongino and the FBI?
Bongino’s exit caps a short but eventful stint transforming a traditionally career-agent position into a political one. Co-deputy Andrew Bailey is positioned to potentially succeed him.
As Bongino eyes a podcast comeback, fans eagerly anticipate his unfiltered takes on administration insider stories.
World24 Analysis
From a World24 viewpoint, Dan Bongino’s brief FBI tenure exemplifies Trump’s strategy of placing loyal media allies in key institutions to reshape them from within. His departure highlights the challenges of transitioning from provocative commentary to operational leadership in sensitive agencies – ideological firebrands often struggle with bureaucratic realities and internal conflicts. This could signal instability at the FBI amid ongoing reforms under Kash Patel, potentially eroding institutional trust while energizing the MAGA base. Globally, it underscores America’s polarized governance, where personal loyalty trumps traditional expertise, risking perceptions of politicized law enforcement in an era of heightened domestic tensions.
Stay updated on Dan Bongino leaving FBI, Trump administration changes, and Bongino’s podcast return.
