U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, together with FBI Director Kash Patel, recently revealed a significant appointment to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's top brass. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has been named Co-Deputy Director of the FBI, a role he will share with former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino. This strategic move positions Bailey, renowned for his involvement in high-profile legal affairs, at the helm of the nation's premier federal investigative body.
Bailey's ascension to this influential position underscores his extensive career in public service, which includes military service and a legal background marked by notable victories. In an interview with Fox News, Bondi lauded Bailey's track record and dedication. "He has served as a distinguished state attorney general and is a decorated war veteran, bringing expertise and dedication to service," she said. She also emphasized Bailey's alignment with President Trump's vision for the nation, stating, "His leadership and commitment to country will be a tremendous asset as we work together to advance President Trump’s mission."
Director Patel has expressed confidence in Bailey's ability to contribute significantly to the FBI's mission and objectives. Patel's remarks reflect an ongoing commitment to recruit top talent to maintain the bureau's stature and effectiveness in tackling the country's most pressing criminal and security challenges.
Bailey, who stepped into Missouri's attorney general role in January 2023, has consistently been in the headlines for his legal confrontations with the Biden Administration. His most significant legal triumph includes securing an injunction against the administration's revision of Title IX regulations – a move that has been met with both support and criticism.
He has also been active on the international legal stage, successfully leading a case against the Chinese Communist Party, which resulted in a multi-billion-dollar settlement over the handling of the COVID-19 outbreak information. His aggressive pursuit of records related to legal actions against President Trump further solidifies his reputation as a staunch ally of the former president.
Bailey's commitment to public safety is evident through his efforts to create an anti-human trafficking task force in Missouri, which addressed hundreds of reported incidents. Additionally, he has been instrumental in clearing the backlog of Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence kits to enhance the prosecution of sexual assault cases.
In his response to the appointment, Bailey expressed his gratitude and reiterated his dedication to the mission of making America safe. "I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Co-Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation," Bailey told Fox News. He also took to Twitter to share his commitment to protecting America and upholding the Constitution.
The Trump administration has high expectations for Bailey's role in reshaping the Department of Justice and the FBI. A senior administration official conveyed President Trump's desire to see enhanced prosecution of criminals, the deportation of illegal immigrants, and accountability for corrupt politicians. Bailey's state-level experience is anticipated to bolster these efforts and contribute to achieving the administration's goals.
