In a significant development within U.S. federal law enforcement, Dan Bongino has been appointed as the deputy director of the FBI. Bongino, a former Secret Service agent, author of best-selling books, and well-known conservative commentator, had previously attempted to secure political office but was unsuccessful in his bids. His selection was announced by President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform, where he described Bongino as someone with “incredible love and passion for our Country,” labeling the decision as “great news for Law Enforcement and American Justice.”
Bongino’s appointment comes at a time when the FBI is under the leadership of another Trump ally, Kash Patel, who was sworn in as director just days prior. This duo’s rise within the FBI raises concerns among Democrats who fear that Trump may leverage the agency against his opponents. Patel has expressed intentions to significantly alter the bureau, including relocating many employees from its Washington headquarters and enhancing the focus on traditional crime-fighting activities.
As the deputy director, Bongino will assume the role of the FBI’s second-in-command, traditionally overseeing the day-to-day operations of the bureau, which is typically filled by a career agent.
Bongino, 49, has an extensive background in law enforcement. He served on the presidential details for both Barack Obama and George W. Bush before rising to prominence as a right-wing commentator. He became notably influential within the Make America Great Again movement, often promoting debunked narratives surrounding the 2020 presidential election.
Following the passing of Rush Limbaugh in 2021, Bongino took over a radio show that aired in Limbaugh’s former time slot, further expanding his media presence. His career began with a tenure at the New York Police Department from 1997 to 1999, after which he joined the Secret Service. Bongino transitioned into television commentary over ten years ago, and from 2021 until 2023, he hosted a Saturday night program on Fox News. Currently, he leads “The Dan Bongino Show,” which is one of the most listened-to podcasts on Spotify.
In addition to his media career, Bongino sought political office, running for a U.S. Senate seat in Maryland in 2012 and challenging congressional positions in both Maryland and Florida in 2014 and 2016. However, he faced defeat in all three elections.
During a discussion last fall, Bongino urged Trump to establish a commission aimed at reforming the Secret Service, referring to it as a “failed” agency and criticizing its management during two assassination attempts from the previous year. He specifically commented on a concerning incident involving a man who reportedly camped near Trump’s Florida golf course while armed, saying, “That guy should have been nowhere near you,” in reference to the alarming situation. In the same conversation, Trump commended the Secret Service agent who noticed the barrel of a rifle protruding from the bushes.
