Internal Tensions Rise as FBI Deputy Director Weighs Resignation Amid Epstein File Controversy
Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino is reportedly considering stepping down from his role following a wave of internal conflict between the FBI and the Department of Justice over the fallout surrounding newly released Jeffrey Epstein files, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The controversy intensified after a tense White House meeting on Wednesday, which brought together Bongino, Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The discussion centered around allegations that the FBI had pushed for more transparency in the Epstein memo release, only to be blocked by the Justice Department. Bongino, confronted about the source of these reports, denied leaking any information, though he chose not to endorse a public statement defending the DOJ’s handling of the review.
While no official resignation has been announced, Bongino's absence from work on Friday has fueled speculation that he may step down, though sources clarified that as of the afternoon, he remained in his post. The dispute reflects growing dissatisfaction among key White House allies over Bondi's oversight of the sensitive and politically charged Epstein documents.
Political Fallout Intensifies
Within political circles close to President Donald Trump, dissatisfaction with Bondi has surged. Several of Trump's staunchest supporters have criticized her for failing to meet expectations set during the 2024 campaign, when Trump promised to release additional government documents related to Epstein's death—an issue that continues to spark controversy and conspiracy theories.
The Department of Justice released a memo earlier this week dismissing the existence of an Epstein “client list” and reaffirming the official conclusion that Epstein died by suicide, contradicting expectations among many in the pro-Trump base who believed the files would expose high-profile individuals or provide evidence suggesting foul play.
Video Footage Adds Fuel to the Fire
A key point of contention centers on a 10-hour surveillance video from outside Epstein’s Manhattan jail cell on the day of his death. Bongino reportedly celebrated the discovery, viewing it as confirmation that Epstein was not murdered. However, scrutiny grew after the footage appeared to skip forward by 60 seconds, prompting accusations that crucial evidence may have been lost or intentionally edited. Bondi claimed the system automatically skips a minute each night due to outdated recording equipment, but the explanation has done little to quell the public speculation or internal backlash.
Division Within Federal Agencies
Frustration has reportedly been building for months between Bongino, Patel, and DOJ leadership. Sources noted that Bondi’s previous public remarks, which suggested the FBI was still reviewing the case when the investigation had already shifted to DOJ oversight, contributed to the tension. Bongino and Patel are said to have been sidelined from a highly publicized White House event in February, organized by Bondi, where Epstein-related documents were presented to pro-Trump influencers—documents that later turned out to be largely available in the public domain for years.
The internal rift went public when a social media post by Laura Loomer, a figure aligned with the Trump movement, claimed Bongino and Patel were “livid” over the DOJ’s handling of the files. She also fueled resignation rumors by noting Bongino’s absence from the FBI on Friday.
In response, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche dismissed reports of any disagreement between FBI and DOJ leadership, insisting that the agencies remain aligned in their handling of the Epstein memo. The White House, too, issued a statement saying Trump’s justice team is working in unity and that any suggestion of internal division is baseless and misleading.
Background on Epstein Case
Jeffrey Epstein, a financier with deep ties to celebrities and political elites, was a convicted sex offender who faced federal charges of sex trafficking minors. He was found unresponsive in his jail cell in August 2019 and was later declared dead by suicide. His death has remained one of the most controversial incidents in recent American legal history, leading to widespread public skepticism and conspiracy theories.
Trump’s administration has used the Epstein case to signal transparency and accountability. However, the backlash over the latest memo, combined with apparent agency infighting, threatens to undercut that messaging.
As of now, Bongino’s future remains uncertain, with key decisions expected in the coming days as political and public pressure continues to mount.
