Dan Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and prominent conservative commentator, has officially been sworn in as the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This appointment places him as the second-in-command under newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel.
Background and Career
Born on December 4, 1974, in Queens, New York, Bongino began his law enforcement career with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) from 1995 to 1999. He subsequently joined the U.S. Secret Service, serving from 1999 to 2011, where he was part of the Presidential Protection Division under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. After leaving the Secret Service, Bongino ventured into politics, running unsuccessfully for Congress three times as a Republican. He later transitioned into media, hosting “The Dan Bongino Show” on Rumble and “Unfiltered with Dan Bongino” on Fox News until April 2023.
Appointment and Responsibilities
President Donald Trump announced Bongino’s appointment on February 23, 2025, highlighting his extensive experience in law enforcement and his dedication to public service. The Deputy Director of the FBI is a senior U.S. government position, acting as the second-in-command to the Director. The role includes leading investigations and overseeing all other FBI executives and agents.
Public Reaction and Controversy
Bongino’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters commend his law enforcement background and assert that his outsider perspective could bring necessary reforms to the FBI. Critics, however, express concern over his lack of direct experience within the FBI and his history as a partisan media figure. Notably, Bongino has been a vocal critic of the FBI in the past, accusing the agency of political bias and corruption.
Vision and Future Direction
In his new role, Bongino is expected to support Director Patel’s vision of reshaping the bureau, which includes relocating employees from its Washington headquarters and placing greater emphasis on traditional crime-fighting duties. Bongino has expressed his commitment to strengthening law enforcement and national security institutions, aiming to restore public trust and ensure the FBI operates without political bias.
Vision and Future Direction
In his new role, Bongino is expected to support Director Patel’s vision of reshaping the bureau, which includes relocating employees from its Washington headquarters and placing greater emphasis on traditional crime-fighting duties. Bongino has expressed his commitment to strengthening law enforcement and national security institutions, aiming to restore public trust and ensure the FBI operates without political bias.