FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino Warns of Broader Network in Charlie Kirk Assassination
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has confirmed that the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is being treated as an ideologically motivated attack, with investigators probing whether the alleged assassin acted alone or as part of a broader network.
Speaking on Fox News’ “America’s Newsroom,” Bongino stated, “If this was a larger effort, if there was any aiding and abetting… we’re looking into that.”
He emphasized that the FBI is committed to leaving “no stone unturned” in its investigation, underscoring the seriousness with which the agency is approaching the case.
Bongino revealed that the suspect had been “taken over” by leftist ideology leading up to the shooting, indicating a potential radicalization process.
The Deputy Director noted that the suspect had become increasingly withdrawn and politically active before the attack, raising concerns about the influence of extremist ideologies.
Investigators are examining the suspect’s online activity and affiliations with left-wing groups to determine if there were any coordinated efforts behind the assassination.
Bongino confirmed that the FBI is reviewing video footage showing the gunman leaping from a rooftop after the fatal shot, which has been critical in advancing the investigation.
He highlighted that the forensic evidence gathered from the scene has provided significant leads, aiding in the identification and apprehension of the suspect.
The Deputy Director stated that the FBI is also looking into any financial transactions or communications that may indicate support or planning from external sources.
Bongino condemned the act as an attack on free speech and political discourse, emphasizing the importance of protecting conservative voices in the public sphere.
He called for unity among Americans in denouncing political violence, regardless of ideological affiliation, to preserve the integrity of democratic institutions.
The Deputy Director acknowledged the emotional impact of the assassination on the conservative community but urged restraint and due process in the ongoing investigation.
Bongino reiterated the FBI’s commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring the public that all leads are being thoroughly investigated.
He expressed confidence that the agency would uncover the full scope of the plot and bring those responsible to justice.
The Deputy Director noted that the investigation is ongoing and that further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Bongino emphasized the need for vigilance and awareness among the public to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He urged individuals to report any suspicious activity or information that could aid in the investigation.
The Deputy Director highlighted the role of community cooperation in combating extremism and ensuring public safety.
Bongino acknowledged the challenges posed by online radicalization but reaffirmed the FBI’s dedication to addressing these threats.
He called for a balanced approach that respects civil liberties while effectively countering extremist ideologies.
The Deputy Director commended the efforts of law enforcement agencies at all levels in responding to the assassination and supporting the investigation.
Bongino expressed gratitude for the assistance of federal, state, and local partners in gathering intelligence and resources.
He noted that the collaboration between agencies has been instrumental in advancing the investigation and ensuring a comprehensive response.
SH0CKING: Virginia AG Candidate Jay Jones’ Texts Reveal Threat to Shoot Republican Speaker
Virginia Attorney General candidate Jay Jones is facing intense scrutiny after text messages from 2022 surfaced, revealing violent rhetoric directed at then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert.
The messages, sent to Republican Delegate Carrie Coyner, included a chilling statement: “Three people, two bullets… Gilbert, Hitler, and Pol Pot. Gilbert gets two bullets to the head.”
Jones further elaborated, stating, “Spoiler: put Gilbert in the crew with the two worst people you know and he receives both bullets every time.”
These texts have sparked bipartisan condemnation, with many questioning Jones’ fitness for public office.
Governor Glenn Youngkin expressed outrage, calling the remarks “violent and disgusting rhetoric.”
Youngkin added that these messages are “beyond disqualifying” for a candidate seeking to be the state’s top law enforcement official.
Delegate Coyner, who received the messages, described them as “disturbing” and “disqualifying,” emphasizing the severity of the threat implied.
Jones initially downplayed the controversy, accusing his opponent, incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares, of orchestrating a smear campaign.
However, as public backlash grew, Jones issued a public apology, admitting he had sent the messages and expressing remorse for his words.
He stated, “I take full responsibility for my actions and have reached out to Speaker Gilbert and his family to apologize directly.”
Despite the apology, many remain unconvinced, citing the gravity of the statements and the potential implications for public safety.
The controversy has overshadowed the campaign, with Jones’ opponent, Jason Miyares, condemning the remarks and questioning Jones’ judgment.
Miyares remarked, “You have to be coming from an incredibly dark place to say what you said. Not by a stranger. By a colleague. Somebody you had served with.”
The incident has also drawn criticism from within Jones’ own party. Democratic gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger condemned the remarks but stopped short of calling for Jones to withdraw from the race.
Lieutenant Governor candidate Ghazala Hashmi also condemned the statements, stating, “I condemn it at every turn, Jay must take accountability for the pain that his words have caused.”
The Republican Attorneys General Association has called for Jones to withdraw from the race, citing the severity of the comments.
This incident adds to a series of controversies surrounding Jones, including a 2022 reckless driving conviction where he was clocked at 116 mph but avoided jail time by completing community service hours with his own political action committee.
Legal experts note that while the messages may not result in criminal charges, they raise serious ethical concerns about Jones’ suitability for public office.
The timing of the revelation is particularly damaging, coming just weeks before the November election, with early voting already underway.
Polls indicate a tight race between Jones and Miyares, with the controversy potentially influencing undecided voters.
