FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino took a personal day this week amid an explosive dispute with Attorney General Pam Bondi over handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, according to a scoop from Leading Report and confirmed by Axios. The conflict erupted after bondi’s office released a memo and a surveillance video from outside Epstein’s cell, stating he was not murdered and had no celebrity “client list.”
Sources reveal Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel were furious at Bondi for retracting earlier claims and failing to release full documents. One insider told The National Enquirer both felt blindsided and deeply frustrated by what they described as a toxic lack of transparency, Axios stated. Bongino’s unexpected absence has fueled speculation about whether he will return to his post.
MAGAs erupt over withheld documents
The released memo walked back prior assertions about a client list and possible foul play surrounding Epstein’s death. This triggered a fierce backlash among MAGA influencers, who accused Bondi of misleading the public. Prominent voices including Laura Loomer, Jack Posobiec, and Elon Musk condemned the move and called publicly for Bondi’s resignation.
Insiders say Bongino and Patel were pushing for earlier disclosure of the files. During a tense White House meeting, Bongino denied leaking those demands, yet the memo release triggered his abrupt exit from work, as per Axios.
Pressure mounts for Bondi to step down
Sources report Bongino and Patel may demand Bondi’s resignation, suggesting it’s the only way to restore confidence with their base, The Washington Post reported. The memo’s revelations intensified frustration among those who expected explosive disclosures, not only from Bondi but from the FBI as well.
Former presidential strategist Steve Bannon has joined calls for a special prosecutor to examine the Epstein files and demanded Bondi recuse herself as details emerged. Meanwhile, watchdogs like Judicial Watch filed FOIA requests seeking the documents.
Strategic risk for Trump’s circle
Experts caution this high‑profile split between Bongino, Patel, and Bondi could become a major liability for the Trump political camp. GOP operatives warn unresolved internal feuds over the Epstein case undermine their claims of clean governance, according to The Daily Beast.
Though Deputy AG Todd Blanche said all parties approved the memo, insiders close to Bongino denied that narrative, implying Bondi received a veto over revealing more documents .
As Bongino remains off the job and calls for Bondi’s public resignation intensify, the Epstein files battle threatens to consume the Trump administration’s messaging strategy—and could determine whether the DOJ memo is a final word or an explosive turning point.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.