FBI co-deputy director Andrew Bailey resigned on September 28, 2026, citing family reasons, marking a significant shift in the bureau’s leadership structure. Bailey, a former Missouri attorney general, had served in the unique co-deputy role since 2025, a position that split the traditional deputy director responsibilities between two individuals.
The Co-Deputy Structure and Its Unusual Origins
The co-deputy director role, established in 2025, was a first in FBI history. Bailey joined as a “co-deputy” to Director Kash Patel, initially working alongside conservative podcaster Dan Bongino, who later stepped down amid tensions with then-Attorney General Pam Bondi over the handling of Jeffrey Epstein files. Bailey’s position, created to address internal disputes, was later continued with Chris Raia, a career FBI agent, after Bongino’s departure.
Bailey’s tenure saw him focus on election security, including oversight of the 2020 election-related raids in Georgia. His resignation leaves questions about whether the FBI will return to its traditional single-deputy structure.
Internal Dynamics and Tensions
The tension escalated amid recent personnel changes. Two FBI agents were demoted last week following complaints from Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff, about the bureau’s handling of threats against his wife.
Reactions and Legacy
Patel acknowledged Bailey’s contributions in a social media post, stating, Although Andrew is leaving the FBI in order to return to his family in Missouri, his fantastic contribution instituting critical reforms which resulted in our historic success will live on.
Bailey, in his own statement, expressed confidence that Patel would continue to reform the FBI, combat violent crime, and restore public trust.
Source 5 notes that Bailey had been a vocal supporter of President Trump’s policies, including his pledge to make America safe again.
His resignation comes as Patel faces scrutiny over his leadership, including a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic over an article critiquing his tenure. The FBI has not yet announced a successor, leaving the co-deputy role’s future uncertain.
Bailey’s departure highlights the FBI’s ongoing internal challenges, including balancing ideological divisions and maintaining operational efficiency. As the bureau adapts to these shifts, the impact of its leadership changes on national security and public trust remains a critical area of focus.