Dan Bongino has built a career that spans law enforcement, politics, media, and business. From serving as a Secret Service agent protecting U.S. presidents to becoming one of the most listened-to conservative radio hosts, Bongino’s story is one of transformation. With his recent appointment as deputy director of the FBI by Donald Trump in February 2025, his influence is only set to grow. Alongside his public career, his net worth and Rumble stock holdings have made him one of the wealthiest political commentators in America today.
Early Life and Education
Dan Bongino was born on December 4, 1974, in Queens, New York City. Of half-Italian descent, he grew up in a working-class environment and attended Archbishop Molloy High School. Later, he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology from Queens College. Not stopping there, he pursued an MBA at Pennsylvania State University. His academic background gave him a mix of social science knowledge and business training, which helped shape his later career in government and media.
Career Beginnings in Law Enforcement
Bongino began his professional career in 1995 as an officer with the New York City Police Department, where he served until 1999. Afterward, he joined the United States Secret Service, working at the New York Field Office. His skill and discipline soon led him to a position as an instructor at the Secret Service Training Academy in Maryland. By 2006, he had reached one of the most prestigious positions in the agency: serving on the Presidential Protection Division. In this role, he protected high-level officials, including U.S. presidents, until his departure from the service in 2011.
Transition to Media
After leaving government service, Bongino turned to media and commentary. He quickly became known for his strong conservative views, making frequent appearances on talk radio and television. He guest-hosted for popular voices like Sean Hannity and Mark Levin and contributed to NRATV until 2018. Bongino also became a fixture on Fox News, and at times, even appeared on platforms like InfoWars, which fueled both his fame and controversy.
His popularity exploded with The Dan Bongino Show, a podcast and radio program that became one of the most listened-to political talk shows in the country. His passionate commentary, often focused on exposing what he calls “liberal overreach,” earned him a loyal following. In 2021, he was signed by Cumulus Media to take over the slot once held by The Rush Limbaugh Show. He also began hosting Unfiltered with Dan Bongino on Fox News.
Books and Political Views
Bongino has written several books, often tied to his political stance. Life Inside the Bubble recounted his experiences in the Secret Service, while Spygate pushed the controversial theory that the Obama administration spied on Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign. Although this claim was investigated and dismissed by federal agencies, it gained traction in conservative circles.
He also became a leading voice in promoting the false claim that the 2020 election was rigged, which led to him being listed among the top misinformation spreaders by The New York Times. His outspoken style has made him one of the most polarizing figures in American media.
Political Campaigns
Bongino’s ambition extended to politics, but with limited success. In 2012, he ran for the U.S. Senate in Maryland but lost to Democrat Ben Cardin. In 2014, he attempted to win a House seat in Maryland’s 6th District but was defeated by John Delaney. After relocating to Florida, he again sought office in 2016 but lost the Republican primary in the 19th congressional district. Despite these setbacks, his failed campaigns helped build his profile in conservative politics.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Dan Bongino’s net worth is estimated at $150 million. His income comes from multiple sources, including radio hosting, podcasting, book sales, television contracts, and investments. His salary as a radio host and Fox News commentator has been reported in the millions annually, though his real financial breakthrough comes from his investment in Rumble.
Rumble Stock Holdings
Dan Bongino is one of the largest individual shareholders in Rumble, the video streaming platform that positions itself as a free-speech alternative to YouTube. According to SEC filings, he owns just over 16 million shares, equal to about 6 percent of the company’s total equity. With Rumble’s stock valued at around $10 per share, Bongino’s stake is worth approximately $160 million. This investment alone has made him one of the wealthiest political commentators in America.
Personal Life and Health
Bongino is married to Paula Andrea, a Colombian native, and the couple has two daughters. For years, they operated small businesses together, including selling martial arts apparel and providing risk management consulting. Family remains an important part of Bongino’s life, even as his career often puts him in the spotlight.
In 2020, Bongino faced a serious health scare when he was diagnosed with throat cancer. Following surgery, doctors confirmed that he had Hodgkin’s lymphoma. By 2021, he announced that he had successfully beaten the disease, crediting his family and faith for giving him strength during treatment.
Real Estate Investments
In June 2019, Dan and Paula purchased a home in Swalls Point, Florida, for $1.55 million. They later listed the property in October 2024 for just under $4 million, eventually selling it within two months. The real estate deal is another reflection of his growing financial success and smart investments outside of media and politics.
Appointment to the FBI
On February 24, 2025, Donald Trump appointed Dan Bongino as deputy director of the FBI. The appointment drew national attention given Bongino’s previous criticisms of federal law enforcement agencies. Supporters view this as a bold move to bring reform, while critics question the decision due to his history of spreading conspiracy theories.
Conclusion
Dan Bongino’s journey from NYPD officer and Secret Service agent to a multimillionaire commentator and now FBI deputy director is remarkable. With an estimated net worth of $150 million, largely fueled by his Rumble stock holdings, he stands as one of the richest media personalities in politics. His controversial views and strong following continue to keep him in the headlines, making him one of the most influential and debated figures in America today.