Dan Bongino, a name synonymous with conservative commentary, has carved out a prominent place in American media. Born in New York on December 4, 1974, Bongino’s journey from a blue-collar upbringing to a key figure in conservative circles is a testament to his diverse career and unwavering principles. From his early days in law enforcement to his impactful presence in media and politics, Bongino’s life and career have been marked by resilience, strong convictions, and public controversy. His recent departure from Fox News in 2023 has raised questions about the future of his influence and career.
Early Life and Law Enforcement Career
Dan Bongino’s roots are humble; his mother worked in a supermarket, and his father was a plumber. This background gave him a down-to-earth perspective, much like the “new money” persona often referenced in popular culture. Bongino’s professional journey began with the New York Police Department (NYPD), where he served from 1995 to 1999. His commitment to public service led him to the U.S. Secret Service in 1999, where he protected Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His time in the Secret Service provided a deep understanding of national security and government operations, laying the groundwork for his later career in media and writing.
Transition to Media and Writing
In 2011, Bongino left the Secret Service and transitioned to a career in media. He quickly became known for his conservative viewpoints, which he articulated through books and television appearances. His first book, *Life Inside the Bubble*, published in 2013, offered an insider’s view of the Secret Service and the political dynamics within the federal government. This was followed by other works, such as *The Fight* and *Protecting the President*, where Bongino delved into national security, political issues, and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies.
Bongino’s writing established him as a knowledgeable commentator, and his transition to media further amplified his voice. He became a regular contributor to Fox News and other conservative outlets, where his dynamic and passionate delivery resonated with viewers. His podcast and radio program, *The Dan Bongino Show*, reaches millions, making him a significant figure in conservative media.
Political Ambitions and Influence
Bongino’s influence extends beyond media; he has also ventured into politics, although with mixed success. He ran for Congress in Maryland’s 6th District in 2012 and the 8th District in 2014 but was not elected. Despite these setbacks, Bongino remained a vocal advocate for conservative principles, including limited government, Second Amendment rights, and strong national security. His political experiences, though not victorious, did not diminish his standing within the conservative movement.
Controversies and Personal Challenges
Bongino’s outspoken nature has made him a polarizing figure. His criticism of mainstream media and political opponents has sparked controversy, with supporters praising his dedication to conservative values and critics accusing him of divisive rhetoric. One notable incident in 2021 involved his wife, Paula Andrea Bongino, who was forcibly removed from a restaurant due to a misunderstanding. Bongino publicly defended his wife, turning the event into a commentary on how public figures and their families are treated.
In addition to public controversies, Bongino has faced significant personal challenges, particularly related to his health. In September 2020, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Despite the diagnosis, Bongino maintained a positive outlook and openly shared his journey with his audience, inspiring many with his resilience.
Departure from Fox News
Bongino’s career took a significant turn in 2023 when he announced his departure from Fox News. As the host of *Unfiltered with Dan Bongino*, he had become a staple of the network’s conservative commentary. However, disagreements over contract terms led to his exit, a move that surprised many of his fans. Bongino expressed dissatisfaction with the terms offered and decided to leave the network, marking a pivotal moment in his media career.
Conclusion
Dan Bongino’s journey from law enforcement to becoming a major voice in conservative media is one of resilience and adaptability. His departure from Fox News may have been a setback, but it has not diminished his influence. Through his podcast, social media presence, and continued media appearances, Bongino remains a significant figure in American conservative circles. His story is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have on national discourse. As he continues to navigate his career and personal challenges, Bongino’s influence is likely to persist, fueled by his passion for the issues he holds dear.
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Ashley Graham Explains Why She Stopped Breastfeeding Her 5-Month-Old Twins
Ashley Graham is one of the most relatable models and public figures out there. After becoming the first-ever plus-size model to be featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated, she has made it her mission to spread the body positivity message. And since Graham is keeping it real in every aspect of her life, she also held nothing back throughout her pregnancies, showing what it really takes to be a mom.
Being a mom to a boy and 2 twins, Graham is spreading a message that every mom has a right to choose whether breastfeeding is right for them, regardless of society’s expectations.
In a recent interview, Graham got candid about the consequences of being pregnant that every woman goes through but prefers to not be too vocal about. The model said she also considered keeping some things to herself, admitting, “Especially with how your body is changing when you’re pregnant, and stretchmarks, and the saggy skin, formula, breastfeeding. Cause there’s also this whole thing with people telling you how to feed your child.”
Ashley proceeded to explain her experience with breastfeeding: “With my first kid, I was like, ’I can only breastfeed! This is the right way!’ Then I had the twins, and I was like, ’I’m not doing this. This is not working here. Both of you want both of these? This is a lot of work.’ So I stopped breastfeeding when they were 5 months, and I gave them the best formula that I could find… And these little guys are so strong and so happy.”
Ultimately, Graham believes it’s up to every mom to decide between formula or breastfeeding based on their personal experience. She drove her point home, saying, “I don’t think we should be telling people how we should be feeding our kids.”
The model then became even more relatable, sharing her physical struggles after giving birth. She said, “Your body just fills up with nutrition, and the baby sucks it out of you. And then the baby comes out and all of a sudden you’re just fully depleted of everything, so your hair falls out, you get acne, I mean, the weight doesn’t come off.”
Graham explained her candidness, saying, “I like to represent myself as someone who’s just happy with who I am. And I had a journey, like, it is a journey, body confidence, being okay with who you are is a journey… I don’t ever want to lie.” And we’re all grateful for the model sharing her experiences with us, as it makes mothers around the world feel seen and heard.
Preview photo credit ashleygraham / Instagram, ashleygraham / Instagram
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