President Donald Trump has confirmed that Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino will leave his position at the Federal Bureau of Investigation and return to podcasting.
Trump made the announcement while speaking with reporters, describing Bongino’s departure as voluntary.
“Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show,” the president said.
Bongino Announces January Departure
Bongino later confirmed the decision in a post on X.
“I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January,” he wrote. “I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose.”
He also thanked Americans for the chance to serve and ended his message with, “God bless America, and all those who defend her.”
White House: Exit Was Bongino’s Choice
A White House source with direct knowledge of the situation said Bongino was not forced out.
“No one is telling him to leave,” the source said. “President Trump likes Dan.”
The source added that Bongino was still present at FBI headquarters on Wednesday.
Return to Media Ahead of Midterms
According to administration sources, Bongino plans to resume his Rumble podcast as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
They described him as an influential conservative media voice whom the administration still values.
“With the upcoming midterms, the administration considers him an important voice,” a source said.
Epstein Probe Sparked Tensions
Bongino’s exit comes months after reported tensions between the FBI and the Department of Justice.
The strain followed a July 7 memo in which both agencies said an extensive review of Jeffrey Epstein’s death uncovered no “client list.”
The statement drew backlash and reportedly caused internal disagreements.
Dispute Quickly Resolved
A White House source said the Epstein-related fallout created tension but did not last long.
“They moved past it quickly,” the source said.
Earlier reports suggested Bongino threatened to resign during a heated meeting after the memo’s release.
Claims Over Unsealed Evidence
In July, sources claimed FBI Director Kash Patel and Bongino wanted to release Epstein-related materials.
“I believe with full certainty that if Kash Patel and Dan Bongino had full authority, they would have released everything possible while protecting victims,” a source said at the time.
The FBI has not responded to requests for comment on Bongino’s departure.
