FBI Co-Deputy Director Andrew Bailey Announces Departure

Andrew Bailey, who has served as co-deputy director of the FBI since September 2025, is leaving the bureau after one year in the role. Two sources familiar with the matter informed NBC News that Bailey's departure is due to family reasons. Bailey confirmed his resignation on social media later on September 28, 2026. He previously held the position of attorney general of Missouri before joining the FBI. In his social media post, Bailey expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump, Attorney General Todd Blanche, and FBI Director Kash Patel for the opportunity to serve. He stated, "Under President Trump’s leadership, we have delivered historic results in our mission to Make America Safe Again. With great pride in what we have accomplished, I am announcing that I am stepping down to return to my family in Missouri." Bailey expressed confidence in Director Patel's ability to continue reforms within the FBI and maintain public trust. His departure follows that of Dan Bongino, the former deputy director, who left to return to podcasting. Bongino was succeeded by Chris Raia, a career FBI special agent. Patel has recently faced scrutiny and legal challenges regarding his leadership at the FBI.