Kash Patel has been confirmed as FBI director and former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino named as deputy director, a significant shakeup that places two staunch allies of President Donald Trump on top the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency — and their first target may be Democratic Party leader Adam Schiff.
The Senate narrowly approved Patel on Thursday in a narrow party-line 51-49 vote, with Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joining Democrats in opposition.
On Sunday night, Trump announced Bongino’s appointment via Truth Social.
“Great news for Law Enforcement and American Justice! Dan Bongino, a man of incredible love and passion for our Country, has just been named the next DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE FBI, by the man who will be the best ever Director, Kash Patel,” Trump wrote.
“Another aspect of the life of Dan Bongino that I think is very important. He has a great wife, Paula, and two wonderful daughters who truly love their dad. What an incredible job Dan will do!!!” Trump added.
Patel, who has vowed to “rebuild” the bureau, expressed gratitude after his confirmation.
“I am honored to be confirmed as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” he said on social media. “My mission as Director is clear: let good cops be cops – and rebuild trust in the FBI. We will rebuild an FBI the American people can be proud of.”
Democrats have blasted Trump’s picks for the new leadership. Sen. Adam Schiff of California led a group of Democrats protesting outside FBI headquarters before Patel’s confirmation vote.
“This is someone we cannot trust,” Schiff said. “This is someone who lacks the character to do this job, someone who lacks the integrity to do this job.”
Patel has previously described Schiff as “the worst criminal in Congress in the last 250 years” — a statement echoed by Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk on X.
Adam Schiff is a criminal https://t.co/f2tbVUcsXg
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 20, 2025
Bongino, a former NYPD officer who served on U.S. secret service presidential protection details for Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, brings a unique background to the traditionally career-agent position.
After leaving the service, Bongino gained popularity in conservative circles as a podcast host, Fox News commentator, and author after unsuccessful runs for political office in Maryland and Florida.
Both appointments represent a significant departure from tradition, as neither Patel nor Bongino has previous FBI experience. They replace acting leaders Brian Driscoll and Robert Kissane, who had led the bureau since the January departure of former Director Christopher Wray.
Conservative groups celebrated the changes. Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, called Bongino’s appointment “incredible news.”
Wow! BREAKING: Great patriot and dear friend Dan Bongino has just been named Deputy Director of the FBI.
This is incredible news!!
Thank you @dbongino for the sacrifice I know this is in service to our country.
America just got a huge upgrade. pic.twitter.com/sJhqwTGZFD
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 24, 2025