FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino says he will step down in January

Dan Bongino, a former conservative podcaster who became the No. 2 official at the FBI under the Trump administration, said he is leaving the bureau next month.

Dan Bongino, a former conservative podcaster who became the No. 2 official at the FBI in the Trump administration, announced Wednesday that he is leaving the bureau next month.

"I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January. I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you," he wrote on X.

President Donald Trump appeared to indicate in remarks to reporters earlier Wednesday that Bongino would be stepping down.

"Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show," Trump said.

After Bongino's announcement, FBI Director Kash Patel called him "the best partner I could’ve asked for in helping restore this FBI."