FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino considering resigning, a former conservative media star turned senior law enforcement official, as of July 11, 2025. His potential departure stems from a fierce clash with Attorney General Pam Bondi over the handling of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. The episode has reignited longstanding tensions within the Justice Department and the FBI.
Background: From Secret Service to FBI Deputy Director
Dan Bongino began his law enforcement career as a New York City Police Department officer (1995–1999), then served as a U.S. Secret Service special agent (1999–2011), including presidential protection duty. After unsuccessful bids for Congress, he transitioned into conservative commentary, hosting shows on Rumble and Fox News. In early 2025, President Donald Trump appointed him Deputy Director of the FBI, a role he assumed on March 17, 2025, under Director Kash Patel.
Latest Developments
Timeline of Key Events
- July 9–10, 2025: The Trump administration releases a DOJ–FBI memo stating there is no evidence Epstein kept a celebrity “client list” or was murdered in custody, supported by surveillance footage showing no unauthorized entry to his cell. The memo effectively rejects conspiracy theories previously advanced by Bongino and others.
- July 11, 2025: A heated confrontation unfolds at the White House between Bongino and AG Pam Bondi over the Epstein files. Bondi had previously suggested possessing a “client list” but later faced internal pushback when no such list was found. The clash reportedly occurred in front of senior officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel. Bongino reportedly left the meeting visibly angry.
- Same day (Friday): Bongino skipped work unexpectedly, prompting widespread speculation that he might resign. While some Trump-aligned voices pushed the narrative, White House officials and the DOJ confirmed no formal resignation has been submitted. Bongino is nonetheless said to be “considering resigning”.
The “Missing Minute”
At the center of the brewing controversy is a gap in the released Epstein surveillance video—commonly referred to as the “missing minute.” Officials explained the one-minute lapse occurred due to how the recording system resets daily. Despite the explanation, the gap has fueled speculation of a cover‑up, angering Bongino’s MAGA-aligned supporters.
Public and Political Reaction on Dan Bongino considering resigning
- Conservative influencers like Laura Loomer have accused Bondi of mismanagement and demanded her removal, asserting that “Bongino is seriously thinking about resigning” over the fallout.
- Deputy AG Todd Blanche publicly defended the DOJ–FBI memo. He confirmed that Bondi, Patel, and Bongino all signed off on the memo’s content, dismissing claims of internal discord.
- White House spokesman Harrison Fields downplayed division, stating any suggestion of internal rifts is baseless and distracts from ongoing law‑and‑order efforts.
- Critics on the left, including media analyst Matt Gertz, said Bongino’s potential resignation may simply mask deep dissatisfaction with the demands of his job, calling the move a return to his more lucrative media past.
Implications
Future of Bongino’s FBI Tenure
If Bongino resigns as Dan Bongino considering resigning, it would mark a dramatic end to a controversial shift from media personality to senior DOJ official. His exit could embolden critics who believe ideological loyalty—not professional expertise—is now central in Trump-era law enforcement leadership.
Broader Institutional Concerns
The episode spotlights potential dysfunction within both the DOJ and FBI, raising questions about transparency, internal accountability, and politicization. The controversy around the Epstein files demonstrates how unresolved conspiracy claims continue to undermine both credibility and trust in federal institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dan Bongino considering resigning
- Is Dan Bongino still with the FBI?
As of July 11, 2025, Dan Bongino is officially still in his role. However, he is seriously Dan Bongino considering resigning amid unresolved tensions over the Epstein files. - What sparked the controversy between Bongino and Pam Bondi?
Dispute arose over Bondi’s prior claims of possessing Epstein’s “client list” and criticisms that she misled supporters. Epstein-related memos and videos showed no such list exists. The confrontation came to a head during a White House meeting. - What is the missing minute in the surveillance footage?
The “missing minute” refers to a one-minute gap in the surveillance recording caused by system resets. Critics allege it’s suspicious; officials assert it’s a technical inevitability - What’s the political fallout among MAGA supporters?
Influencers aligned with Trump, including Laura Loomer, have demanded Bondi be fired and expressed outrage over what they view as deception surrounding the Epstein files. - Does this episode reflect broader DOJ–FBI issues?
Yes. Reports of internal firings, forced loyalty oaths, and departure of career staff have fueled concerns about politicization and declining institutional independence.
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