Key Takeaways

• Former deputy director Andrew McCabe says Dan Bongino proved unprepared for FBI leadership.
• McCabe highlighted Bongino’s public complaints about the job’s tediousness.
• He noted Bongino never praised rank-and-file agents.
• McCabe warns that chaotic leadership under Kash Patel harms FBI morale.
• He fears new loyalty polygraphs echo J. Edgar Hoover’s era.

Andrew McCabe served as FBI deputy director for almost two years. Now he criticizes Dan Bongino’s brief stint in the same post. McCabe spoke out on live television about Bongino’s ill fit for the role. He says Bongino’s public remarks showed he did not grasp the agency’s mission. McCabe also warned that recent leadership changes fuel fear inside the bureau.

What Went Wrong with Dan Bongino’s Leadership?

First, Dan Bongino complained that his new job felt tedious. He said tasks like reviewing files and managing staff took too long. However, McCabe says this view misses the bigger picture. He reminded listeners that working at the FBI is a rare privilege. He noted that every day on the job matters.

In fact, McCabe explained that FBI agents handle major national security cases. They chase dangerous criminals. They solve high-profile cyber attacks. He argues that a leader who calls that tedious lacks commitment. Instead of seeing honor in the work, Bongino focused on the slow pace.

Moreover, McCabe criticized Bongino’s social media statements. He never once praised the agents and analysts who keep the bureau running. McCabe called that omission “sad” and “unforgivable.” He believes a deputy director must celebrate the people on the front lines.

Instead, McCabe sees Dan Bongino as “fundamentally unqualified.” He said Bongino never showed deep knowledge of FBI operations. McCabe also pointed out Bongino’s absence of positive messages. A strong leader talks about both challenges and successes. Bongino did not.

The Impact on FBI Morale

According to McCabe, morale has slipped since new leaders took charge. He singled out FBI Director Kash Patel as equally unsuited for the top post. McCabe says Patel has driven out senior leaders who served under previous administrations. He warned that removing experienced agents leaves the bureau weak.

Furthermore, McCabe heard reports of agents fearing for their careers. He says some staff worry they could be fired for working on controversial cases. He believes this fear chills honest investigations. It may slow or derail major probes.

In addition, McCabe claims the FBI has reintroduced loyalty polygraphs. He says these tests aim to root out agents deemed disloyal to the director. For example, officers who worked on certain political investigations must now pass extra screening. McCabe believes this mirrors tactics last seen under J. Edgar Hoover.

These moves, he warns, could drive away top talent. Skilled investigators may seek less stressful jobs. As a result, the FBI might lose its edge in solving crimes and blocking terrorist plots.

The Road Ahead for FBI Leadership

With Dan Bongino set to depart, McCabe says it’s a chance for fresh leadership. He thinks a new deputy director should focus on restoring trust inside the agency. That means praising agents, listening to staff, and ensuring fair treatment.

Moreover, McCabe urges the FBI to drop loyalty polygraphs. Instead, he wants training programs and open dialogue. He believes these steps boost morale more than fear-based tactics.

He also suggests the bureau should celebrate its successes publicly. By highlighting solved cases, arrests, and prevention wins, leadership can remind both agents and the public why the FBI matters.

Ultimately, McCabe hopes the next deputy director will embrace the FBI’s mission. He wants someone committed to leading with integrity and respect. He believes that approach will strengthen the agency for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Andrew McCabe to criticize Dan Bongino’s tenure?

Andrew McCabe spoke out after hearing Bongino’s public complaints about his job being tedious. McCabe felt Bongino’s remarks showed he did not value the FBI’s work or its employees.

How did Dan Bongino’s comments hurt morale?

Bongino focused on the slow pace of administrative tasks and never praised agents. This led McCabe and others to believe he lacked appreciation for the FBI’s mission, which can harm staff motivation.

What is the concern about loyalty polygraphs at the FBI?

McCabe warns that asking agents to prove loyalty to the director can create fear. He fears it mirrors tactics from J. Edgar Hoover’s era and could drive away skilled personnel.

What qualities should the next FBI deputy director have?

McCabe says the right leader should value agents, encourage open communication, and highlight successes. They should lead with integrity, respect, and a clear vision for the FBI’s mission.