Tensions are reaching a boiling point inside the federal government as FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino considers stepping down following internal clashes over the controversial Jeffrey Epstein files, multiple sources told CNN.

Bongino’s potential resignation comes after a confrontation with Attorney General Pam Bondi earlier this week regarding the release and public response to the Epstein case memo. The dispute reportedly escalated during a Wednesday White House meeting with FBI Director Kash Patel, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and other senior officials.

At the heart of the dispute: claims that the FBI wanted to release more information about Epstein’s case, but was blocked by the Department of Justice. A NewsNation report hinted at this tension—though Bongino has denied leaking the story. However, insiders note he didn’t publicly back Bondi’s narrative either.

Bongino was notably absent from work Friday, fueling speculation that he had already resigned. However, sources say no official decision has been made.

The internal rift is also being driven by frustration from Trump allies. The Justice Department's recent Epstein memo stated there was no evidence of a client list or foul play in Epstein’s death—contradicting years of online speculation. That conclusion ignited outrage in MAGA circles, where many expected explosive revelations or proof of a broader cover-up.

Right-wing activist Laura Loomer claimed Bongino and Patel were “livid” over the DOJ’s handling of the release, and that Bongino had taken the day off amid the uproar.

Another flashpoint: a surveillance video from Epstein’s jail cell. Bongino believed the footage definitively proved Epstein was not murdered. But after its release, eagle-eyed viewers noticed a mysterious 60-second cut in the recording.

DOJ officials, including Bondi, insisted the daily reset of the recording system caused the missing minute—but public skepticism exploded. Internally, Bongino was blamed for the fallout, despite being the one who had pushed for its release.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche denied any rift between DOJ and FBI leadership, calling suggestions of discord “patently false.”

The White House echoed that message. Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields emphasized that Trump’s law enforcement team is “unified and focused” on delivering justice, calling rumors of internal fractures “baseless distractions.”

Bondi has also come under fire from Trump supporters. A February White House event she organized featuring Epstein-related binders was panned by pro-Trump influencers when it was revealed much of the material was already public. Bongino and Patel had little involvement in that rollout, but sources say it added to the mounting tension.

With MAGA world demanding accountability and transparency, and internal frustration rising, Bongino’s fate now hangs in the balance.