President Donald Trump’s selection of Dan Bongino as FBI deputy director has ignited fierce Democratic criticism, with lawmakers accusing the administration of prioritizing political loyalty over institutional integrity. Bongino, a former Secret Service agent turned conservative media figure and 2020 election denier, will oversee daily FBI operations under Director Kash Patel without Senate confirmation.
Bongino confirmed his emotional reaction to Trump’s unexpected appointment during his podcast, stating,
I broke down a bit... This is now real.His lack of traditional career-agent credentials contrasts sharply with past FBI leadership norms, raising concerns about the agency’s independence.
Democrats like Sen. Adam Schiff argue the move undermines public trust, calling Bongino a loyalistenabling unethical acts. Sen. Chris Murphy criticized the pick on social media, noting Bongino’s history of promoting conspiracy theories and monetizing partisan fearmongering.
Bongino defended his readiness for the role, emphasizing his law enforcement background and commitment to nonpartisanship:
Every DNA cell in my body is dedicated to homeland safety.He vowed to address FBI corruption claims while relocating 1,500 personnel from Washington under Patel’s restructuring plan, which includes:
- Shifting resources to field offices
- Expanding operations at Alabama’s Redstone Arsenal
- Reducing D.C.-based staff
The appointee’s controversial statements resurfaced, including his dismissal of the 2016 Trump-Russia probe as a scamand unfounded 2020 election fraud claims. Bongino also blasted Secret Service failures after Trump’s 2024 assassination attempt, despite now leading an agency he previously labeled irredeemably corrupt.
Analysts warn Bongino’s appointment signals Trump’s broader strategy to install ideological allies across federal institutions, potentially reshaping the FBI’s apolitical mandate. As partisan tensions escalate, the agency faces heightened scrutiny over its ability to maintain operational neutrality ahead of the 2026 midterms.