Andrew Bailey, the Trump-appointed FBI deputy director overseeing election investigations, has stepped down from his role approximately one year after assuming it. Bailey announced his departure in a post on X on Monday, citing a desire to return to his family in Missouri. His exit comes amid an ongoing shake-up at the bureau under Director Kash Patel.
Who Is Andrew Bailey?
Bailey, a hardline conservative and former attorney general of Missouri, was appointed to the unusual co-deputy director position in September 2025 alongside Dan Bongino, a podcaster with no formal FBI experience. Since Bongino left the FBI in January, Bailey served as co-deputy director with Christopher Raia, a former FBI special agent and New York field office official. Bailey's tenure was marked by his oversight of sensitive election-related investigations.
Role in Trump's Election Investigations
In his FBI role, Bailey oversaw some of Trump's election-related investigations, including one related to 2020 ballots in Georgia. He was present in January when FBI agents executed a search warrant at an election office in Fulton County, Georgia, as part of an inquiry into potential voter fraud. His departure raises questions about the future direction of these investigations and whether they will continue with the same intensity.
Impact on FBI Reforms
Bailey's resignation is part of a broader shake-up at the FBI under Director Patel, who has pledged to reform the bureau, combat violent crime, defend the homeland, ensure strong organizational accountability, and restore public trust. Bailey expressed confidence in Patel's leadership, stating, "I am confident Director Patel will continue to reform the FBI... and restore public trust in this institution of excellence."
Comparison of FBI Leadership Changes
| Position | Previous Holder | Current Holder | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deputy Director | Dan Bongino | Christopher Raia | Bongino left Jan 2026 |
| Co-Deputy Director | Andrew Bailey | Vacant | Bailey stepped down |
| Director | Christopher Wray | Kash Patel | Patel appointed 2025 |
Key Takeaways
- Andrew Bailey stepped down as FBI deputy director after one year.
- He oversaw Trump's election-related investigations, including Georgia 2020 ballots.
- His departure leaves a vacancy in FBI leadership amid ongoing reforms.
- It is unclear if Trump will appoint another deputy director to serve with Raia.
FAQ
Why did Andrew Bailey step down from the FBI?
Bailey stated he is stepping down to return to his family in Missouri. He announced his departure on X, expressing confidence in FBI Director Kash Patel's leadership.
What investigations did Bailey oversee?
Bailey oversaw several of Trump's election-related investigations, including one related to 2020 ballots in Georgia. He was present when FBI agents executed a search warrant at an election office in Fulton County.
Who will replace Bailey at the FBI?
It is unclear whether Trump plans to pick another deputy director to serve alongside Christopher Raia, who is currently co-deputy director. The FBI has not announced a replacement.
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