Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel announced Monday the appointment of Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey as co-deputy director of the FBI, a move described as a first for the agency. Bailey will serve alongside current Deputy Director Dan Bongino, following a significant rift that emerged last month between Bongino and Bondi over the handling of Jeffrey Epstein files.
New Leadership Structure
The announcement by Bondi and Patel to Fox News Digital confirmed Bailey’s new role. Bongino, who was named the FBI’s sole deputy director earlier this year, reportedly largely excommunicated himself from colleagues in July following the dispute with Bondi.
Historically, the FBI’s deputy director manages the bureau’s day-to-day operations. It remains unclear how the duties of co-deputy directors will be divided between Bongino and Bailey.
Statements on Appointment
Bondi expressed enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, “I am thrilled to welcome Andrew Bailey as Co-Deputy Director of the FBI. He has served as a distinguished state attorney general and is a decorated war veteran, bringing expertise and dedication to service. His leadership and commitment to country will be a tremendous asset as we work together to advance President Trump’s mission.”
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also welcomed Bailey on social media, commending his previous work. Blanche noted that as Missouri’s Attorney General, Bailey “took on the swamp, fought weaponized government, and defended the Constitution.”
Background and Reaction
Bailey had previously been considered to lead the FBI before President Trump’s inauguration, having interviewed for the position with Trump in Mar-a-Lago. However, CNN reported that Trump was not impressed at the time, believing Bailey did not fit the mold of the “legal bulldog” he sought to head the FBI.
Bongino’s future within the agency has been subject to speculation since the internal disagreement over the Department of Justice’s handling of the Epstein files, which President Trump reportedly wished to see contained. Following the news of Bailey’s appointment, Bongino posted a brief “Welcome” on social media, accompanied by three American flag emojis.
In a statement announcing his resignation as Missouri Attorney General, Bailey expressed gratitude to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi. He stated, “My tenure as Attorney General has been the honor of my professional career, but what has made it truly meaningful has been the opportunity to serve my home state. Together, we have defended the rule of law and safeguarded our freedoms. I am forever grateful.”
The appointment of Andrew Bailey as co-deputy director marks a unique structural change within the FBI, occurring amidst internal tensions and a stated mission to advance President Trump’s agenda.
