Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino responded publicly this week after FBI Director Kash Patel praised his service following Bongino’s announcement that he will depart the bureau in January, as reported by Fox News.

Bongino confirmed Wednesday that he plans to leave his role less than a year after joining the agency.

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He was sworn in as Deputy Director in March 2025 after stepping away from his work as a conservative commentator and radio host to accept the federal law enforcement position.

Following the announcement, Patel issued a statement on X commending Bongino’s work during his tenure.

“Dan is the best partner I could’ve asked for in helping restore this FBI,” Patel wrote.

“He brought critical reforms to make the organization more efficient, led the successful Summer Heat op, served as the people’s voice for transparency, and delivered major breakthroughs in long unsolved cases like the pipe bomb investigation. And that’s only a small part of the work he went about every single day delivering for America.”

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Patel added that Bongino exceeded expectations during his time in leadership at the bureau.

“He not only completed his mission – he far exceeded it,” Patel said. “We will miss him, but I’m thankful he accepted the call to serve. Our country is better and safer for it.”

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Bongino replied directly to Patel later the same day, expressing appreciation for the remarks and reflecting on their time working together.

“Thank you my friend, it’s been the honor of a lifetime to serve beside you,” Bongino wrote.

Bongino’s departure comes less than a year after he joined the FBI leadership, marking a relatively brief but high-profile tenure.

Before entering federal service, Bongino served as a U.S. Secret Service agent and later became a well-known conservative media figure.

His decision to leave broadcasting in early 2025 to join the FBI was viewed as a significant shift, drawing attention both inside and outside Washington.

President Donald Trump commented on Bongino’s decision prior to the official announcement, offering praise for his work and suggesting a possible return to media.

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“Dan did a great job,” Trump said, adding that he believes Bongino wants to return to his show.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi also acknowledged Bongino’s service after his announcement. Bondi shared his post on X and credited his work at the bureau.

“Americans are safer because of @FBIDDBongino’s service,” Bondi wrote. “Thank you, Dan.”

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Neither Bongino nor the FBI has announced who will succeed him as deputy director, and the bureau has not released additional details about the transition timeline.

Bongino has not outlined specific plans following his departure, though comments from Trump suggest he may resume his role in conservative media after leaving government service.

Bongino’s exit marks another leadership change at the FBI as the agency continues ongoing reform efforts highlighted by Patel during his remarks.

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