Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino recently called out New York Post columnist Miranda Devine, accusing her of publishing a “deep-state hit piece” aimed at undermining the FBI’s reform efforts. His remarks came following Devine’s article that criticized the leadership of FBI Director Kash Patel and alluded to their focus on social media and personal advancement over effective governance. Bongino took to X, stating, “Deep-state Devine strikes again,” emphasizing his disdain for what he deems gossipy and unsubstantiated critiques from former FBI employees.
Devine’s article presented a harsh assessment of Patel’s leadership, suggesting he was “in over his head” and describing him as a “clown” at the helm of a “rudderless ship.” Many of her claims relied on anonymous sources, which Bongino dismissed as lacking credibility. The article also included a 115-page critique from a group of active and retired agents who portrayed the current leadership as inexperienced and overly focused on social media. Notably, the assessment took issue with Patel’s reported desire to exit an FBI jet in a raid jacket, a point Bongino found particularly absurd.
One striking element of Devine’s report is its admission of ongoing partisan sentiment within the FBI. It quotes a source who acknowledged the influence of what is termed “Trump Derangement Syndrome” that persists in segments of the Bureau. This sentiment reportedly includes agents expressing contempt for the current president, as well as a bias in the Bureau’s recruitment processes toward candidates from more liberal educational backgrounds.
In response to the criticism, FBI Assistant Director for Public Affairs Ben Williamson defended the current leadership, noting that Patel and Bongino inherited an organization with a dismal approval rating. He asserted that their approach as disruptors is not only warranted but is also yielding measurable success: crime arrests, for instance, have seen significant increases, while the homicide rate has dropped.
Bongino’s counterattack emphasizes the transition the FBI is undergoing. It reflects a commitment to reform that faces resistance from entrenched interests within the agency. The stark contrast between the old guard and the new leadership’s agenda paints a picture of ongoing conflict within the Bureau. The current leadership appears determined to overhaul the organization, even in the face of criticism, referencing tangible improvements as evidence of their effectiveness.
Amid these battles over control and vision, it is clear that the discussions surrounding the FBI are emblematic of larger cultural and political rifts in the country. As Bongino continues to push for transparency and accountability, the tension between reform-minded officials and those loyal to the status quo at the FBI will likely persist.
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