Dan Bongino Responds Forcefully to Former President Obama's Comments

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former FBI Co-Deputy Director Dan Bongino issued a pointed response to comments made by former President Barack Obama during a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Obama had warned against the politicization of law enforcement and prosecutorial decisions, stating that the government should not be used to target political opponents and that the White House should not direct the attorney general on specific cases. Bongino addressed the remarks on his podcast, saying “I know things too, Mr. President, and so do you” and adding “I’m not letting you get away with this, no chance!”

Bongino linked his response to ongoing discussions about investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election, which he has described as involving the weaponization of government institutions. He has previously referenced materials from his time at the FBI that he believes could shed light on those matters. The exchange highlights continued public debate over the conduct of federal investigations during the 2016 presidential campaign and subsequent years.

Bongino served in the Secret Service’s Presidential Protective Division during Obama’s presidency and has spoken positively about his interactions with the Obama family at that time. His public stance shifted after he entered media and political commentary, where he became a frequent critic of certain Democratic policies and actions. Bongino held the position of FBI Co-Deputy Director from March 2025 to January 2026. He resigned from the role earlier this year, citing a desire to return to his family and focus on his media career. He told Fox host Sean Hannity that he had informed President Donald Trump and FBI Director Kash Patel before accepting the deputy director post that he intended to serve for approximately one year.

President Trump praised Bongino following his departure, stating that he would have a greater impact through his podcast and public platform than in his government role. Bongino has also expressed concerns about his personal safety should Democrats regain control of Congress, adding to the intensity of his recent public statements. Obama’s appearance on Colbert focused on the importance of maintaining the independence of the justice system and avoiding the use of government power against political adversaries.

The broader discussion reflects ongoing partisan divisions over the role of federal agencies in high-profile investigations and the standards for accountability in public office. Supporters of Bongino’s comments argue that they represent a necessary push for transparency regarding past investigations. Critics contend that such statements contribute to politicized narratives without new evidence. No formal legal action has resulted from the specific allegations Bongino has referenced in relation to the 2016 election matters.

The exchange between Bongino and Obama’s remarks occurs amid continued national conversations about the balance between law enforcement independence and public oversight. Both sides of the political spectrum have expressed strong views on how federal investigations should be conducted and whether past actions require further review. Bongino’s tenure at the FBI drew mixed reactions, with supporters crediting him with advancing certain inquiries and critics describing internal disagreements over priorities and management style.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, such public exchanges between former officials and political figures are likely to continue shaping discussions about government accountability and the integrity of federal institutions. The debate underscores the persistent tension between differing interpretations of events from the 2016 election cycle and their long-term implications for public trust in government processes.