Newly appointed Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino has stirred controversy with his claims that the January 6 pipe bombs were an “inside job,” prompting discussions on federal security and agency accountability. The implications of his assertions for governmental oversight and public trust remain to be seen.
Bongino’s Claims on the Inside Job
Dan Bongino, now the Deputy Director of the FBI, has made contentious statements suggesting that the FBI was complicit in planting pipe bombs in Washington, D.C., during the tumultuous events of January 6, 2021. These assertions, aired on his widely-followed podcast, claimed that the FBI knows the identity of the pipe bomber, insinuating a cover-up. Bongino’s history as a former Secret Service agent and NYPD officer informs his opinions, which he frequently voices on his platform.
FBI Deputy Director Bongino repeatedly said pipe bombs planted ahead of Jan. 6 were ‘inside job’ https://t.co/QaUCRQX9pL
— Ben Pershing (@benpershing) March 1, 2025
The unsolved case of the January 6 pipe bombs continues to fuel conspiracy theories, with Bongino amplifying such views. Allegations of the FBI’s wrongdoing stretch to accusations of tampering with surveillance footage related to the incident. Bongino’s narrative points to a more profound skepticism about federal operations, a sentiment he shares with new FBI Director Kash Patel. The duo is known for their presence in MAGA circles and mission to reform the FBI under President Trump’s leadership.
FBI Deputy
Director Bongino repeatedly said pipe bombs planted ahead of Jan. 6 were
"inside job”.
Old timers at the FBI are going to love working for this maniac. pic.twitter.com/b1RGD07vz2— Gerry Carlin (@GerryCarlin) March 1, 2025
Federal Scrutiny and Public Reaction
The FBI has declined to comment on Bongino’s bombshell claims, maintaining a position of silence amid reports questioning the agency’s integrity. Such governmental reticence follows revelations from a 2024 Department of Homeland Security report detailing Vice President Kamala Harris’s proximity to an explosive device near the DNC on January 6. This further complicates the accountability discourse, drawing public attention to potential lapses in security measures.
“I believe the FBI knows the identity of this pipe bomber on January 6th, four years ago, and just doesn’t wanna tell us ‘cause it was an inside job,” Bongino said on his podcast.
Bongino’s allegations add vigor to ongoing debates about the federal response to the events surrounding January 6, with comments from a White House spokesperson who commended his qualifications and dedication to public service. The spokesperson highlighted Bongino’s readiness to leave his top-rated podcast as a testament to his commitment to ensuring justice.
Implications for Federal Oversight
Kash Patel and Bongino plan to steer the FBI in a new direction, enhancing law, order, and fairness. With allegations about the FBI’s involvement in the pipe bomb incident at the forefront, the duo’s upcoming tenure sparks anticipation and concern alike. Their leadership is part of a broader effort that realigns agency priorities, aiming to restore public trust in federal security bodies. How these changes materialize will be closely observed by both critics and supporters.
Bongino’s skepticism of the FBI harkens back to May 2017, following the appointment of a special counsel to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 election. Imagining a future where these recent allegations are substantiated, Bongino hinted that the incident might be rebranded as a training mishap. As public scrutiny intensifies, the subsequent impact on federal security narratives serves as an evolving story with national significance.
Sources:
https://feedpress.me/link/20202/16974145/index.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/24/us/politics/dan-bongino-trump-fbi-director-conspiracies.html