Trump Appoints Dan Bongino as FBI Deputy Director, Raising Concerns Over Extremism and Partisanship

Critics warn that Bongino's history of conspiracy theories and far-right rhetoric could undermine the FBI's mission and embolden extremist groups.

Dan Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and conservative podcaster, has been named Deputy Director of the FBI by President Trump, bypassing Senate confirmation.
Bongino has a history of downplaying white supremacist threats, defending January 6 rioters, and promoting conspiracy theories, raising alarms among experts and former officials.
The appointment follows the confirmation of Kash Patel as FBI Director, further solidifying the Trump administration's influence over the agency.
Observers fear that Bongino's leadership could politicize the FBI, weaken its focus on domestic extremism, and embolden far-right groups like Terrorgram, recently labeled a global terrorist entity.
Bongino's critics highlight his lack of FBI experience and controversial statements, including dismissing the FBI's efforts to address threats against school board members and election-related violence.