Patel Comments On Report Following Bondi Comments
The Department of Justice faced internal turbulence on Friday following its controversial statement earlier in the week that Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide and that no client list exists. The DOJ's position, delivered in an unsigned memo bearing both DOJ and FBI seals, ignited widespread backlash and raised concerns of internal division—particularly involving FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino and FBI Director Kash Patel.
Initial reports suggested both men were considering resignation in protest over the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files. The focal point of the dispute appears to be Attorney General Pam Bondi’s endorsement of the DOJ memo, which she defended on legal grounds, citing the need to protect victim identities and abide by judicial restrictions.
The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been. It’s an honor to serve the President of the United States @realDonaldTrump — and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.
— Kash Patel (@Kash_Patel) July 12, 2025
According to multiple sources, Bongino issued an ultimatum, signaling that he may step down if Bondi remains in her role. The Daily Mail reported that Bongino was deeply dissatisfied with the Justice Department’s refusal to release further information, including any material resembling a client list connected to Epstein.
However, by Friday night, clarity began to emerge. Just the News editor-in-chief John Solomon reported that Patel had no intention of resigning. Patel confirmed this publicly, reiterating his commitment to President Trump and the FBI’s active investigations.
White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields attempted to downplay the reports of discord, stating, “This work is being carried out seamlessly and with unity. Any attempt to sow division within this team is baseless and distracts from the real progress being made.”
White House statement on today’s FBI/DOJ Epstein news cycle:
“President Trump has assembled a highly qualified and experienced law and order team dedicated to protecting Americans, holding criminals accountable, and delivering justice to victims. This work is being carried out…
— Shelby Talcott (@ShelbyTalcott) July 11, 2025
Solomon’s reporting indicates that a larger FBI investigation—described as examining a decade-long conspiracy against Donald Trump—remains active and central to Patel’s decision to stay on. “No one's going to give up that opportunity,” Solomon said, suggesting serious developments are imminent.
As for Bongino, his future remains uncertain. He is reportedly taking a short leave to evaluate his position but has not made a final decision. Sources close to the matter say internal tensions remain high.