Dan Bongino, a name synonymous with conservative commentary and fiery political opinions, has once again grabbed national attention—this time from within the U.S. government itself. Now serving as the FBI’s deputy director, Bongino has requested a personal security detail made up of 20 agents. That’s right—twenty. This bold move has stunned officials inside the Bureau, not just because of the scale of the request, but because no one in this position has ever made such a demand.
What makes this even more eye-popping is the contrast with Bongino’s predecessors, none of whom had any permanent security detail, let alone one consisting of two dozen armed personnel. The decision has prompted widespread speculation: Is this a justified measure due to threats? Or is it political theater? Is it about safety—or symbolism?
With the FBI now organizing a rotating team of agents for temporary protective duty, the move has implications that stretch far beyond the walls of the Bureau. Let’s unpack what this means for Bongino, the FBI, and the broader political landscape.
Introduction: A Security Move That’s Turning Heads
Who is Dan Bongino and What Role Does He Hold?
Dan Bongino isn’t your typical government bureaucrat. He’s a former NYPD officer turned Secret Service agent turned Fox News contributor turned podcast sensation. Known for his aggressive takedowns of liberal politics and staunch defense of Donald Trump, Bongino commands a massive following—and just as many critics.
In February 2025, Bongino was appointed Deputy Director of the FBI in a controversial yet unsurprising move by the Trump-aligned administration. His appointment was both lauded and lambasted, depending on which side of the aisle one falls. But even those who support him didn’t expect him to shake things up this fast.
The deputy director is essentially the second-highest-ranking official in the FBI, traditionally a quiet, behind-the-scenes operator. Bongino, with his media savvy and vocal public persona, was never going to fit that mold.
Why His Security Request Is Raising Eyebrows
Shortly after stepping into the role, Bongino reportedly requested a full-time security detail—20 agents strong. This kind of protection is generally reserved for high-risk officials like the FBI director, the attorney general, or individuals under credible threat.
The kicker? No other deputy director has ever had such a detail. In fact, most have operated with minimal security, if any at all. Bongino’s demand isn’t just unusual—it’s unprecedented.
And it’s this break from tradition that’s causing ripples throughout the Bureau. Is this a justified precaution due to legitimate security threats? Or is it a political statement designed to elevate Bongino’s stature and reinforce his outsider persona?
Understanding the Role of the FBI Deputy Director
Historical Overview of the Position
The deputy director of the FBI is a powerful yet traditionally low-profile position. They are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Bureau, acting as a bridge between field offices and federal leadership. They often play a critical role in formulating policy, coordinating investigations, and ensuring agency compliance with legal and ethical standards.
It’s a job that demands discretion and quiet authority—not usually one associated with media spotlights and security entourages.
Previous deputy directors have included career agents and legal experts who rose through the FBI’s ranks. Rarely have they been public figures. Certainly, none have required—or requested—the level of protection now surrounding Dan Bongino.
Security Protocols for Past Officeholders
Traditionally, the deputy director is not assigned a personal security detail unless a specific threat arises. Even then, the response is measured and temporary, not a standing force of 20 agents.
In fact, several former deputy directors have spoken publicly or off the record to media outlets expressing confusion at Bongino’s decision. Many have pointed out that they walked to work, rode public transit, and attended events without any escort beyond normal federal building security.
So why is Bongino rewriting the playbook?
The Unprecedented Security Request
Bongino’s 20-Agent Detail: What It Involves
The scale of Bongino’s request has raised both logistical and financial questions. The 20-agent detail will involve rotating teams providing around-the-clock protection. According to reports, these agents are being selected from within the FBI’s existing staff, some of whom are being pulled off active investigations to fulfill this duty.
This isn’t just a guy with one or two bodyguards. It’s a mobile unit, a security bubble, a full-blown protection detail worthy of a cabinet-level official.
Supporters argue that this is simply a modern-day necessity. Bongino, given his polarizing media presence, could very well be facing threats that aren’t publicly known. Detractors see it as excessive, even wasteful.
How This Compares to Predecessors’ Arrangements
To put this in perspective: even during times of national crisis or high-profile investigations, past FBI deputy directors managed their responsibilities without a security entourage. Bongino is the first to suggest that the role now requires constant protection.
Critics say this risks undermining the professional image of the FBI, portraying it as a politicized institution tailored to one man’s paranoia or ego. Others worry it sets a new precedent—will future appointees demand similar perks?
The FBI’s Response to Bongino’s Request
Call for Volunteer Agents
To implement Bongino’s security plan without outright forcing agents into service, the FBI has issued a call for volunteers. The goal is to create a rotating team, drawing from across the agency’s national offices. These agents will temporarily step away from their usual assignments to serve in Bongino’s protective detail.
Internally, this has led to a mixed response. Some agents have volunteered out of duty, while others have reportedly expressed frustration that investigative resources are being diverted from active cases to protect someone who hasn’t demonstrated a clear threat risk.
There’s also confusion about the criteria being used. Is Bongino facing credible threats? Or is this more about political messaging?
Logistics of Organizing a Protective Team
Organizing a 20-person team isn’t simple. It involves shifts, transport, accommodations, and a support network—all of which require coordination, funding, and oversight.
There are also legal implications. The FBI’s internal policies and federal budget rules aren’t typically designed to accommodate discretionary, long-term protective assignments at this scale. Already, questions are being raised in Congress about the cost and precedent this may set.
