Bongino admits he was paid for his opinions on past pipe bomb cover-up claim

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino on Thursday dismissed inquiries about his previous assertions suggesting a cover-up regarding the identity of the individual who planted pipe bombs near the Democratic and Republican national committee offices the day before the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot.

During an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Bongino was reminded of his earlier social media posts. He responded, saying the FBI was confident we have our person.

In the past, Sean, I received payment for sharing my opinions, Bongino stated. Thats straightforward. Eventually, I may return to that role, but presently, my responsibility is as your deputy director, where our work relies on factual investigations.

He added that while speaking at a press event, he observed that some media personalities, familiar to both of us, were promoting other scandals, like the collusion claims, likely referring to the Russian election interference allegations. The difference between us and them is that we adapt as new information emerges, producing results based on facts. Our foundation is in factual investigations, Bongino explained.

On the same day, the FBI announced the arrest of 30-year-old Brian Cole in Woodbridge, Virginia. Cole faces charges of transporting an explosive device across state lines and attempting malicious destruction using explosive materials.

Bongino had previously speculated on his podcast that the FBI might already know the suspects identity but was withholding it because it was an inside job.

This arrest resolves one of the lingering questions from the period surrounding the January 6 events in Washington. For nearly five years, the FBI encountered criticism over the unresolved case and had offered a substantial reward for information. Authorities noted that the suspect avoided capture by concealing his appearance with a hoodie and a large face mask.

During Thursdays press conference, Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that Coles arrest was not the result of new tips. They criticized the previous administration for impeding progress on the investigation. Patel stated that experts reviewed all evidence thoroughly, analyzing every piece of data that the prior administration neglected.

Bondi added, There were no new leads or witnesses. This is the outcome of careful, persistent police and prosecutorial efforts.

Author: Chloe Ramirez