Missouri AG Resigns FBI marks a significant shift in Andrew Bailey’s career and has triggered strong reactions across the nation. On August 18, 2025, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced that he would resign from his post effective September 8 to become the co-deputy director of the FBI. He will serve alongside Dan Bongino under Director Kash Patel in a new, dual-leadership structure.
A Career Defined by Service and Strategy
Andrew Bailey’s rise began when he was appointed Missouri Attorney General following Eric Schmitt’s election to the U.S. Senate in 2022. He later won a full term in 2024. In just over two years, he became known for aggressive legal actions aligned with conservative priorities. These included lawsuits against Biden administration policies on immigration, student loan forgiveness, environmental regulations, and transgender rights. He also took legal stances on drag shows in schools, abortion laws, and challenged New York’s handling of Trump’s hush-money trial. His office also secured a significant $24.5 billion settlement in a COVID-19 equipment lawsuit.
Entering the FBI: A Strategic and Political Leap
Bailey’s move to the FBI comes amid sweeping leadership changes spearheaded by Director Kash Patel. The appointment of Missouri AG Resigns FBI to this top position is rare, especially since both co-deputies including Bongino lack FBI backgrounds. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised Bailey as a decorated Army veteran and a dedicated public servant. Bailey expressed gratitude to President Trump and Bondi, stating he was answering his lifelong call to service at the national level.
Implications for Missouri and the FBI
For Missouri
Governor Mike Kehoe will appoint an acting Attorney General to serve until a general election can be held. Bailey’s departure represents a significant change in leadership during a time of high-profile cases, including challenges involving the state’s sheriff and county officials.
For the FBI
The new co-deputy structure breaks with tradition. Past deputy directors have been career FBI officials. This shift reflects a political influence on the Bureau, raising questions about its future direction. Within the bureau, tensions are rising—particularly following internal shifts related to the Epstein investigation. Political watchers note that Bailey’s appointment may be seen as further alignment of the FBI with conservative leadership goals.
Political and Strategic Reactions
Experts say that Bailey’s move continues a pattern of Missouri Attorney Generals advancing to federal roles—Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt did the same. Some see this as using state leadership as a federal springboard. Political observers also point to the broader context: both Bongino and Bailey face scrutiny over partisan influence and lack of internal FBI experience.
Bailey’s supporters praise his hardline legal stances and view his appointment as a way to push conservative law-and-order priorities at the federal level. Critics warn that politicizing the Bureau could erode public trust and undermine professional standards.
The Road Ahead
Bailey’s transition to the FBI will be closely watched by both supporters and skeptics. In the coming months, attention will focus on:
- How duties are divided between the co-deputy directors
- Whether political agendas overshadow institutional norms
- The impact on the Bureau’s credibility amid ongoing leadership shifts
- How Missouri manages the transition and the new acting Attorney General
Conclusion
Missouri AG Resigns FBI captures a moment of high-stakes transition. Andrew Bailey’s resignation to become FBI co-deputy director marks a rare jump from state leadership to one of the most powerful positions in federal law enforcement. It raises both opportunity and controversy—whether this proven state leader will reshape the FBI or spark deeper questions about its future role in America.
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