FBI’s Dan Bongino Issues Major Update: ‘Not An Accident’
FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino have pledged to reform what they describe as a deeply flawed agency.
On Sunday night, Bongino shared an update on X (formerly Twitter), offering insight into recent developments at the FBI and what may be on the horizon.
“Headed back to DC today after spending a day back home with my wife and daughter. As I dive back into work, I want to reassure you that nothing that is happening here is happening by accident,” Bongino posted. He emphasized that due to the sensitive nature of FBI operations, both he and Patel are limited in how much they can publicly disclose. “Bad guys read this stuff too,” he noted. “Neither one of us came here to play games.”
He went on to stress accountability: “Measure us by results. You will see them. But just because you don’t see something happening right this second, doesn’t mean it isn’t happening.” Bongino acknowledged that some decisions may not please everyone, adding, “That’s just pandering, it’s not leadership. Complex problems require diligence and a reform-oriented process to create lasting changes. Or else you’re simply putting a bandage on a gushing wound. Let’s do it right. God bless America, and all those who defend Her.”
In a follow-up post, Bongino addressed the public directly: “I’d like to add this: Your comments and criticisms are not only welcome, but they’re helpful. We work for you, the American people. Your feedback is invaluable.”
He also urged the public to consider the context behind decisions: “All I ask is that you consider the following feedback to the feedback. When you see something happen, and the entire story isn’t public, and the underlying facts aren’t all public, it may appear counterintuitive to our reform agenda.”
“I promise you, it’s not an accident,” he reiterated. “Ask yourself, why I would sign on to something like this otherwise. Is it a desire to be wealthy, famous, ‘connected,’ or to be a future lobbyist? If that sounds ridiculous, it’s because it is.”
Bongino admitted that transparency isn’t always possible: “I realized when I signed up that I’d never be able to fully explain some decisions we make due to legal and ethical constraints. But that’s a pill I agreed to swallow when I swore in.” He wrapped up his statement with a message of perseverance and faith in the process: “In conclusion, I realize asking you to ‘trust me’ is a waste of time. Watch what happens, continue to demand results, be cautious of narrative ‘traps,’ let time put the puzzle pieces together, and what we’re doing will make sense. I see and hear you and your feedback. Thanks for your time.”
Since Patel took the helm as Director, the FBI has seen a surge in interest from potential recruits. Applications to become agents have hit historic highs.
According to Fox News Digital, 5,577 people submitted applications to join the FBI in March alone—marking the highest monthly total since April 2016, when 5,283 applications were received. The average monthly application rate in 2023 was 2,797, and in 2024, it rose to 3,383.
From January to March this year, over 10,000 applications were submitted. In January—when the Trump administration began and Patel's nomination and confirmation process kicked off—the FBI logged 4,143 applications, the most in a single month since August 2020.
Patel and Bongino have made recruitment and internal morale a top priority. Their strategy centers around “letting good cops be cops,” which many believe is driving the renewed interest in joining the bureau.
In March, Patel released a recruitment video featuring himself alongside agents in the field, including scenes from the hostage rescue team’s training center. The video ends with a powerful message: “A renewed mission. A stronger future.”