Top FBI Officials Ordered to Resign or Face Demotion Amid Trump’s Ongoing Purge
Affected executives include senior managers responsible for key investigations at the FBI.
WASHINGTON — A significant shakeup at the FBI unfolded Thursday, as several high-ranking executives, promoted under former Director Christopher Wray, were instructed to either resign or retire. Those who refuse to step down face potential demotion or reassignment, according to multiple sources within the bureau.
Among those affected are approximately six "executive assistant directors," who oversee critical areas such as criminal, national security, and cyber investigations. As career civil servants, these officials cannot be dismissed without cause, making this move particularly controversial.
One current FBI official told NBC News that the decision would cause considerable disruption within the bureau, while a former official, who is in contact with current employees, noted widespread frustration. The employees targeted by the purge are largely seen as non-political figures, sparking anger over their treatment.
The FBI has not commented on the personnel changes, which were initially reported by CNN.
Christopher Wray, whom President Donald Trump appointed as FBI Director in 2017, resigned at the conclusion of the Biden administration, leaving a void in leadership.
This latest move comes during a broader wave of staff changes in the early days of Trump’s second term. The president recently dismissed 18 inspectors general from various departments, including State, Defense, Labor, and Health and Human Services. Trump defended these actions, claiming that some officials were not performing their duties properly or fairly.
The Trump administration has also seen the removal of career attorneys at the Justice Department, many of whom were involved in legal proceedings against him, raising concerns about retribution against those who challenged his conduct.
Kash Patel, who has been nominated by Trump to lead the FBI in his second term, reassured senators at his confirmation hearing that, if confirmed, he would not engage in retaliatory actions within the bureau.
Reporting by Ken Dilanian in Washington and Zoë Richards in New York.