President Donald Trump announced via his Truth Social platform that Dan Bongino has been named the next Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This appointment positions Bongino as the second-in-command under the newly confirmed FBI Director, Kash Patel, who was sworn in recently following Senate confirmation. Trump praised Bongino, highlighting his background as a former New York Police Department officer, a U.S. Secret Service agent who served on presidential details for George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and his current role as a prominent conservative podcaster and commentator. Trump emphasized Bongino’s educational credentials—a Master’s Degree in Psychology from the City University of New York and an MBA from Penn State—and described him as a patriot willing to give up his successful media career to serve in this capacity. The announcement indicates that Bongino’s selection was made by Patel, and as the Deputy Director role does not require Senate confirmation, this appointment is effective immediately.
Evita Duffy-Alfonso, a journalist and Bongino’s managing producer, has already taken on a prominent role in the Bongino media ecosystem. She launched Bongino Report Early Edition with Evita, a daily podcast under the Bongino umbrella, in July 2024, which is distributed by the Cumulus Podcast Network. Some are wondering if Duffy might step in temporarily—or even permanently—given Bongino’s new high-profile government role.
Bongino’s FBI position is effective immediately and does not require Senate confirmation. Bongino has built a strong brand and team, including Duffy, who’s positioned as a rising conservative voice. For now, it’s speculation Duffy is slated to replace him permanently, but her existing involvement makes her a logical candidate for at least an interim role if needed.
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