White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt strongly defended President Trump’s decision to appoint conservative commentator Dan Bongino as deputy director of the FBI, dismissing concerns about his lack of current FBI experience. Leavitt emphasized Bongino’s background as a former special agent for the Secret Service and his deep commitment to serving his country. She stated that Bongino’s understanding of corruption within federal agencies, particularly the FBI, made him a valuable asset to the administration’s efforts to reform these institutions. Leavitt also expressed frustration with media outlets labeling him a “far-right podcaster,” insisting that Bongino’s law enforcement experience and dedication to his country were the reasons for his appointment.
Leavitt further explained that the president chose Bongino because he was an outsider to the Washington establishment, which she argued made him a threat to those entrenched in the political system. She suggested that many in Washington were nervous about Bongino’s appointment because of his focus on rooting out corruption within federal agencies and ending the “weaponization of government.” Leavitt’s comments highlighted the administration’s commitment to shaking up the status quo and addressing what they perceive as systemic issues within the government, particularly the FBI.