FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino delivered a fiery message to criminals and corrupt officials on Wednesday, declaring, “We’re about to ruin your summer if you’re a bad guy.”
The blunt warning, made during an interview on The Dan Bongino Show, underscored the agency’s renewed focus on rooting out crime and corruption under the leadership of Director Kash Patel and Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and outspoken conservative commentator.
Bongino’s remarks come amid a turbulent period for the FBI, which has faced criticism for alleged politicisation during the Biden administration.
Appointed as deputy director following President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, Bongino has vowed to restore the agency’s credibility by prioritising investigations into serious crimes and holding wrongdoers accountable.
“If you’re a corrupt politician or a bad guy breaking the law, we’re going to find you,” he stated, emphasising a no-nonsense approach.
“There are no friends in D.C. If you want a friend, get a dog. We’re here to protect the homeland and bring justice.”
The deputy director’s comments have sparked widespread discussion, particularly on social media, where supporters hailed his tough stance as a signal of accountability.
One post described Bongino as leading a “mission” to dismantle the “deep state”, while another praised the FBI’s “good cops” for doubling down on pursuing criminals.
However, critics argue that Bongino’s rhetoric risks further polarising public trust in the FBI, with some questioning whether his focus on “bad guys” could lead to overreach or selective enforcement.
Bongino’s warning coincides with heightened scrutiny of high-profile figures, including former FBI Director James Comey, whom conservatives have accused of misconduct.
Recent social media posts referenced an FBI investigation into Comey’s deleted Instagram post, interpreted by some as a threat against Trump, though no charges have been filed.
Director Patel echoed Bongino’s sentiment in a recent statement, urging new agents to focus on bringing “bad guys” to justice.
The FBI has announced plans to ramp up operations targeting organised crime, public corruption, and national security threats this summer, with Bongino overseeing key initiatives.
As the agency moves forward, his bold rhetoric signals a shift toward aggressive enforcement, raising both expectations and concerns about the FBI’s direction.