Former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers is no longer in the running to become the next FBI Director, according to a senior adviser to President-elect Donald Trump. Dan Scavino, who will be the deputy chief of staff in the new White House, stated on social media that hiring Rogers is “not happening.” Scavino mentioned that he spoke to President Trump about the possibility of Rogers leading the FBI, and Trump responded by saying, “I have never even given it a thought.”
Rogers, who recently lost the election for the Republican Senate nominee in Michigan by a very close margin, was considered a top candidate to replace the current FBI Director, Christopher Wray, whom Trump plans to dismiss. Rogers had met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago last week and had discussions with Trump’s transition team regarding the potential role of FBI director.
Although a Republican source familiar with the situation confirmed that Rogers had met with Trump and his team, Trump’s transition spokesman Brian Hughes declined to comment on Scavino’s statement directly. Rogers, in an interview on “FOX & Friends,” emphasized the need for a change in the culture of the FBI.
During Trump’s first administration, Rogers had been considered for the position of FBI director following James Comey’s dismissal. However, Trump ultimately appointed Christopher Wray to the position for a traditional 10-year term. Throughout his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump had highlighted his intention to make changes at the FBI, alleging that the bureau was influenced by politics and corruption. Wray had also faced criticism from Trump, although not as severe as some other officials.
One name that has emerged in media reports as a potential candidate for FBI director in Trump’s second administration is Kash Patel, a controversial aide who had served in various roles in the National Security Council and Defense Department during Trump’s first term.
The Department of Justice declined to comment on Scavino’s announcement regarding Rogers. Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report, and Chris Pandolfo is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
