Former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said he fears for his life if Democrats regain power and target him for retaliation [1].
Bongino's comments highlight the deepening polarization in U.S. politics and the perception among some conservative figures that the legal system could be used for political retribution.
Speaking on the "Hang Out with Sean Hannity" podcast, Bongino said the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has the "impulses of a deer tick" [2]. The interview was released April 28, 2024 [3].
Bongino's reaction stemmed from a now-deleted DNC tweet regarding Memorial Day. The post politicized the deaths of U.S. service members who were killed in action during the presidency of Donald Trump [4].
"I'm scared for my life if Democrats regain power. They're going to come for me," Bongino said [1].
Bongino referenced his professional background to explain his perspective on government power. He said he would never be the same after his 10-month tenure serving as the FBI Deputy Director [5].
Throughout the discussion, Bongino said the DNC's social media activity was evidence of an aggressive political strategy. He suggested that such impulses would translate into direct action against political opponents if the party secured control of the government [2].
“"They have the impulses of a deer tick."”
The statement reflects a broader trend of high-profile political commentators viewing the administrative state as a potential weapon for partisan retaliation. By citing his experience within the FBI, Bongino is attempting to lend institutional credibility to the claim that government agencies can be utilized for political targeting.
