The Federal Bureau of Investigation has appointed a new senior leader, selecting the head of its prestigious New York field office to serve as a co-deputy director. This move follows the recent departure of the controversial former holder of the post, Dan Bongino.
A Career Agent Steps Up
An FBI spokesperson confirmed on Friday, 9th January 2026, that Christopher Raia has been named to the bureau's number two position. Raia, who has led the New York office since April of last year, will now serve as co-deputy director alongside Andrew Bailey, the former Missouri attorney general appointed in August.
Raia is a career FBI agent with a markedly different profile from his predecessor. He joined the bureau in 2003 and has built a two-decade career investigating violent crime, drugs, and gangs, while also overseeing critical counterterrorism and national security operations. Prior to his FBI service, he was an officer in the United States Coast Guard.
His appointment is seen as a return to a more conventional selection process for the senior role. Dan Bongino, a popular conservative podcaster and former Secret Service agent, had never worked for the FBI before his politically charged appointment by the Trump administration last year.
Background and Predecessor's Exit
Raia's most notable recent assignment was helping to lead the response to the deadly truck attack in New Orleans on New Year's Day last year. He was subsequently chosen to run the FBI's crucial New York field office.
He took over that role from James Dennehy, who was reportedly forced into retirement after resisting efforts from the Justice Department to scrutinise agents involved in politically sensitive investigations.
His predecessor in the deputy role, Dan Bongino, announced his departure last month, officially ending his tenure just last week after a brief and tumultuous period in the post. The FBI has not yet named an immediate successor to lead the New York field office following Raia's promotion.
What Happens Next
Christopher Raia is scheduled to begin his new duties as co-deputy director next week. His extensive operational experience, particularly in counterterrorism and complex criminal investigations, is expected to bring a steadying influence to the FBI's upper leadership following a period of significant political scrutiny and change.
The appointment underscores a shift back towards promoting seasoned, career professionals into the bureau's most senior operational roles. Raia's background stands in stark contrast to the recent political appointments that have characterised some high-level positions within US federal law enforcement.
