Full Breakdown
Andrew Bailey Resigns as Missouri Attorney General to Join FBI
8/21/2025, 7:49:31 AM
Transition to Federal Leadership
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced his resignation on August 18, 2025, to accept the role of co-deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), effective September 8, 2025. Bailey, a Republican and staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve at the national level, stating, “My life has been defined by a call to service, and I am once again answering that call.” He will serve alongside Dan Bongino, the current deputy director, under FBI Director Kash Patel.
Bailey's appointment is part of a broader reshaping of the FBI, which has seen numerous senior officials removed amid ongoing scrutiny over its handling of sensitive cases, including those related to Jeffrey Epstein. His transition marks a significant shift in Missouri's political landscape, as Bailey is the latest in a line of Missouri attorneys general to ascend to federal positions, following Eric Schmitt and Josh Hawley.
Background and Context
Bailey was sworn in as Missouri's 44th attorney general on January 3, 2023, after being appointed to fill the vacancy left by Schmitt, who was elected to the U.S. Senate. During his tenure, Bailey was known for his aggressive legal strategies, including lawsuits challenging various Biden administration policies on immigration, environmental regulations, and gun rights. He also pursued controversial actions, such as threatening legal action against private gyms over bathroom policies and advocating for restrictions on transgender rights.
His office recently defended Missouri's anti-abortion regulations against a voter-approved constitutional amendment affirming a state right to abortion. Notably, Bailey secured a $24.5 billion award against China related to the COVID-19 pandemic, a case initiated by his predecessor.
Official Statements & Responses
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi welcomed Bailey's appointment, stating, “His leadership and commitment to country will be a tremendous asset as we work together to advance President Trump’s mission.” Bondi emphasized the loss for Missouri but framed Bailey's new role as a significant gain for the nation. Kash Patel echoed this sentiment, noting that Bailey would be integral to the FBI's mission.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is set to announce Bailey's successor, with potential candidates including former U.S. Attorney Catherine Hanaway. Kehoe expressed confidence in Bailey's capabilities, stating that he would serve Americans well at the FBI.
Criticism & Opposition
Bailey's tenure as attorney general has not been without controversy. Critics, including Missouri House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, have described his leadership as damaging to the reputation of the Attorney General's Office. Aune remarked, “Given the damage Bailey inflicted on the reputations of both the Attorney General’s Office and the state of Missouri, he will not be missed.” Concerns have also been raised about the increasing politicization of the FBI, with some commentators suggesting that Bailey's appointment reflects a trend of placing partisan loyalists in key positions.
What's Next
As Bailey prepares to transition to his new role, the Missouri political landscape is poised for change. Governor Kehoe's announcement of Bailey's successor will be closely watched, as the new attorney general will inherit a range of ongoing legal challenges and political responsibilities. Bailey's appointment to the FBI underscores the ongoing influence of Trump-aligned figures within federal law enforcement, raising questions about the future direction of the agency.