FBI’s Dan Bongino Now Under 24/7 Protection
The FBI has assembled a round-the-clock, multi-agency security detail for Deputy Director Dan Bongino, including coverage inside FBI headquarters.
This marks the first time a deputy director will receive this level of personal protection, which could require up to 20 agents, according to the report. The FBI recently issued a request for agents to volunteer for a “temporary duty assignment” involving Bongino’s protection. These agents would rotate shifts, stepping away from their usual roles to serve on the detail.
Bongino, a former NYPD officer and Secret Service agent, is licensed to carry a firearm, but has opted not to—preferring instead to rely on the protection team.
By contrast, Bongino’s predecessor, Paul Abbate, was only accompanied by a part-time agent during some appearances. Abbate typically only requested a protective detail when traveling abroad, according to the report.
“The question is, what is the actual risk and threat here, or does he just want a detail? This is taxpayer money we’re talking about,” former senior FBI official Frank Figliuzzi told NBC News.
Full protective details are usually reserved for the FBI Director and the U.S. Attorney General, the report noted.
FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Bongino have pledged to overhaul what they describe as a deeply flawed agency.
Bongino shared an update on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday night regarding his work at the FBI and what lies ahead.
“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. Because of the sensitivity of what the FBI deals with, both the Director and I have to be circumspect in what we can make public. Bad guys read this stuff too. Neither one of us came here to play games,” Bongino wrote.
“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. I’ll conclude by stating that not every result is going to please everyone. 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,” he added.
In a follow-up post on X, Bongino emphasized transparency and accountability:
“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. 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. 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,” he said.
“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. 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,” Bongino concluded.