Bongino Makes Big Announcement His First Day Out of FBI
Former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino broke his silence on X just one day after departing his post, issuing a forceful and deeply personal message aimed at reconnecting with supporters as he transitions back into civilian life and prepares for what appears to be a major new chapter.
“Let me add this, from the jump, so there’s NO confusion,” Bongino began, making clear that his exit from government service would not mark a retreat from the conservative movement he helped shape.
“I started in this movement as a candidate during the Tea Party movement, and I began my political commentary career shortly thereafter. I helped build this movement and I sure as hell am not going to let it get hijacked by a group of black-pillers, life-losers, grifters and bums,” he wrote.
Bongino emphasized that conservatism is rooted in enduring principles, not fleeting trends or performative outrage.
“We are a movement guided by truth. The essence of conservative ideology is the preservation of eternal truths. We are not the ‘latest thing’ group. We are not political cannibals. I’ve watched quietly from the inside while doing the job I was hired to do, but I’m back now, and it’s time to restore balance to the force (that one was for Gui),” Bongino continued.
Turning his attention to critics and online agitators, Bongino issued a blunt warning as he teased upcoming announcements about the future of his media platform.
“As we get ready to make some announcements about the future of the show, I also want to warn the haters and the zeroes – we’ve been at this a long time. We live for this stuff. This isn’t our first, second or tenth rodeo. We’ve seen a lot dipshits come and go. We revel in making you angry enough to show your asses. It’s glorious,” he wrote.
With midterm elections on the horizon, Bongino argued that unity—not constant grievance—will be essential for conservatives seeking lasting victories.
Let me add this, from the jump, so there’s NO confusion. I started in this movement as a candidate during the Tea Party movement, and I began my political commentary career shortly thereafter. I helped build this movement and I sure as hell am not going to let it get hijacked by… https://t.co/kkH9jTXY9M
— Dan Bongino (@dbongino) January 5, 2026
“We’ve got midterms coming up, and there’s no time for bullshit. This administration is cooking and REAL change simmers. If you’re spending your entire day bitching and whining with 3/4ths of the term still to go, then please find the exits,” he added. “There’s no time for it. It’s not ‘infighting’ when you excise a cancer killing the host. It’s ‘outfighting’ because you’re not part of any movement I’m familiar with.”
Bongino closed the post with a promise of more to come: “Looking forward to big things ahead. Can’t wait to tell you about it.”
President Donald J. Trump, who is currently serving his second term, confirmed Bongino’s departure last month and praised his service, suggesting the former deputy director was eager to return to his expansive media career.
Bongino later expanded on his decision during an appearance on Fox & Friends, offering a rare glimpse into the personal toll of his time in government service.
“I mean I gave up everything for this. I mean you know my…my wife is struggling. I’m not a victim. I’m not Jim Comey. It’s fine,” Bongino said. “I did this and I’m proud I did it. But if you think we’re there for tea and crumpets…Well, I mean, Kash is there all day.”
He described the demanding schedule inside the FBI, noting his close working relationship with Director Kash Patel.
“Our offices are linked. He turns on the faucet, I hear it. He gets there at like six o’clock in the morning. He doesn’t leave till seven at night. You know, I’m in there at 7:30 in the morning,” Bongino said.
Bongino also spoke candidly about the strain the job placed on his family life in Washington, D.C.
“He uses the gym, I work out in my apartment, but I stare at these four walls all day in DC, you know, by myself divorced from my wife – not divorced, but I mean separated-divorced, and it’s hard,” he said. “I mean, you know, we love each other and it’s hard to be apart.”
Soon-to-be former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino on why he's stepping down.
— USA Features Media (@UsaFeatures) December 19, 2025
Thank you for your service @dbongino pic.twitter.com/bCfhURk53V
His departure reportedly followed internal tensions with Attorney General Pam Bondi related to the handling of investigative files tied to Jeffrey Epstein. According to reports, Bongino had informed associates of plans to leave early next year and had already begun clearing out his office.
In a final post on X addressing his exit, Bongino expressed gratitude to President Trump, Bondi, and FBI Director Patel.
“Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you,” Bongino wrote.