Patriot Brief
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What Happened: Dan Bongino announced he will resign from the FBI in January, thanking Trump administration leaders and the American people.
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Why It Matters: Bongino played a key role in internal reforms and major cases, including progress in the long-stalled pipe bomb investigation.
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Bottom Line: His exit marks the end of a reform-driven chapter at the FBI, with strong signals he is not leaving public life behind.
Dan Bongino confirmed Wednesday that he is stepping down from the FBI, announcing he will officially leave his post in January.
“I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January,” Bongino wrote in a statement on X. He thanked President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve, adding, “Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you. God bless America, and all those who defend Her.”
I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January.
I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose.
Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you.
God bless America, and…— Dan Bongino (@FBIDDBongino) December 17, 2025
President Trump appeared to confirm Bongino’s departure shortly before the announcement, telling reporters, “Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show.” The comment fueled speculation that Bongino may return to media or public advocacy after a short but high-impact stint inside the bureau.
Bongino’s exit comes just weeks after a major breakthrough in the long-running pipe bomb case tied to January 5, 2021, when Brian Cole of Virginia was arrested for allegedly planting explosive devices near the RNC and DNC headquarters. The case had lingered for years and became a symbol of public frustration with the FBI’s lack of transparency and results.
Director Kash Patel praised Bongino’s role in pushing reforms and restoring confidence inside the agency. “Dan is the best partner I could’ve asked for in helping restore this FBI,” Patel said, crediting him with efficiency reforms, leading the Summer Heat operation, advancing transparency, and helping crack major cold cases, including the pipe bomb investigation.
“He not only completed his mission, he far exceeded it,” Patel added. “Our country is better and safer for it.”
Bongino’s departure closes a chapter that many Trump supporters viewed as a rare moment of accountability and reform within a deeply distrusted federal institution. Whether he returns to media, politics, or another public role, his influence is unlikely to fade quietly.