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Trump nominates Dan Bongino as FBI deputy chief: criticism, ‘Lack of experience’

Former ultra-conservative anchorman and podcaster, Bongino is known for his critical stances towards the agency and calls for mass firings

Donald Trump today nominated Dan Bongino as deputy head of the FBI, sparking more than a little controversy over the choice of a figure with no experience in the field, in a post usually reserved for career agents. Bongino, a former Fox News anchor and now an ultra-conservative podcaster, has often been harshly critical of the FBI, calling for mass layoffs among federal agents.

Bongino, who is not seeking Senate confirmation, will follow the lead of Kash Patel, recently appointed head of the agency. Patel, also close to Trump’s positions, has come under criticism for his lack of experience in the field, fears also shared by former attorney general Bill Barr.

The intelligence community has expressed concern about the appointment of Bongino, who has repeatedly publicly criticised the work of the FBI, particularly on investigations related to the 6 January assault and Trump’s secret papers.

Trump praised Bongino on his social media, calling him a man ‘with an incredible love and passion for our country’. However, the appointment of the controversial former Secret Service agent is fuelling debate over the FBI’s independence and professionalism under the new leadership.

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