Former FBI Director James Comey has publicly criticized current Deputy Director Dan Bongino for announcing the reopening of several high-profile investigations via social media, questioning the professionalism of such disclosures. In a CNN interview with Wolf Blitzer, Comey expressed confusion over Bongino’s transition from conservative commentator to top FBI official, stating, “It’s a little confusing to me, honestly. I’m sure it’s a huge adjustment to go from being a podcaster to being the deputy director of the FBI.” Comey also questioned the necessity of reopening certain cases, such as the 2021 pipe bomb incident and the 2022 Supreme Court leak, suggesting that the FBI’s role in these matters was unclear.

Bongino, appointed as Deputy Director in March 2025, has emphasized the need to restore public trust in the FBI and criticized Comey for alleged misconduct. He has also announced the reopening of investigations into the 2023 discovery of cocaine at the White House, the 2021 pipe bomb incident, and the 2022 leak of the Supreme Court’s draft opinion in the Dobbs v. Jackson case . Bongino’s approach has drawn criticism from some quarters, with Comey and others questioning the methods and motivations behind these actions.

The debate highlights ongoing tensions within the FBI and the broader political landscape, as figures like Bongino and Comey navigate their roles and influence within the agency.