Mediaite Editor Questions Reality of "Unhinged" Email from New FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino

Aidan McLaughlin, Editor-in-Chief of Mediaite, recently reacted on social media to the resurfacing of an "unhinged" email attributed to Dan Bongino, the newly appointed FBI deputy director and a prominent right-wing podcaster. McLaughlin's tweet, which simply asked, "is this real 🥺," highlighted the disbelief surrounding the email's content and the context of Bongino's controversial new role.

The email, originally sent in December to Washington Post journalist Jeremy Barr, contained highly inflammatory language. In the message, Bongino reportedly questioned Barr's intelligence, asking, "Are you a dips--t all the time, or just on weekdays?" He further instructed Barr to "Lose my email, and don't bother contacting me again. Thanks, and have a Merry Christmas. Off to the spam file labeled 'media dips--ts' you go."

Barr had shared the email on X (formerly Twitter), noting, "I always appreciated that FBI deputy director Dan Bongino replied to my emails, even if it was this." McLaughlin's subsequent reaction on the platform underscored the shock and amusement among media observers regarding the aggressive tone of the communication. Other users echoed this sentiment, with one commenting, "Is this real? That is totally unhinged. And hilarious."

The email's initial context stemmed from a Washington Post article that scrutinized Bongino's credibility after he had threatened to resign from his radio show over a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, yet continued to host despite the policy remaining in effect. Media analysts at the time widely viewed his ultimatum as a publicity stunt rather than a genuine principled stand.

Bongino's appointment as FBI deputy director has drawn criticism, as the position is traditionally held by a career FBI agent, not a former Secret Service officer. Despite the controversy, former President Trump has publicly lauded Bongino as a "patriot with incredible love and passion for our country," emphasizing his support for the contentious figure. The resurfaced email further fuels public debate surrounding Bongino's temperament and suitability for a high-ranking federal position.