The Deputy Director of the FBI, Andrew Bailey, has resigned after less than a year in the role, marking another departure of a key leader within the US justice system. Bailey cites a desire to return to his family in Missouri, but US media reports suggest his exit is linked to a strained relationship with FBI Director Kash Patel. His appointment last year was unusual, as his background was as the former Attorney General of Missouri, lacking prior experience in federal law enforcement—normally a requirement for the position. Reports indicate a frosty relationship with Patel, a staunch Trump supporter, who reportedly excluded Bailey from key meetings due to critical feedback on proposed measures. The Deputy Director position was also uniquely configured as a dual role alongside Dan Bongino, appointed by President Trump directly under Patel. This latest resignation adds to existing internal unrest within the US justice system, including previous disputes between the FBI and the Department of Justice regarding the Epstein case, and the earlier dismissal of Attorney General Bondi.