Andrew Bailey Resigned From FBI Post
The former Missouri attorney general has returned to his home state after serving as co-deputy director of the FBI.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in People
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Andrew Bailey has resigned as the co-deputy director of the FBI, a position he held for approximately one year. He is now returning to Missouri to spend time with his family after leaving his federal role.
Why it matters
Bailey's resignation marks a notable transition for the former Missouri attorney general who left his state post in 2025 to serve in the federal law enforcement agency. His departure has sparked discussion regarding his potential return to Missouri politics for the 2028 election cycle.
The FBI employs 38,000 individuals across 56 regional field offices and maintains more than 60 overseas law enforcement attachés. Bailey served as the co-deputy director of this organization for approximately one year.
The players
Andrew Bailey
He is the former co-deputy director of the FBI and the former attorney general of Missouri.
Catherine Hanaway
She succeeded Andrew Bailey as the attorney general of Missouri.
Kash Patel
He serves as the director of the FBI.
Mike Kehoe
He is the Governor of Missouri and has announced his intent to run for re-election in 2028.
The details
Andrew Bailey, who previously served as Missouri attorney general from 2023 to 2025, was appointed to his FBI role without requiring Senate confirmation. Following his resignation, he stated he did not have a poor relationship with FBI Director Kash Patel.
Timeline
Andrew Bailey began serving as Missouri attorney general in 2023.
Bailey won a major election in 2024.
He resigned from his state attorney general position in 2025.
Bailey announced his return to Missouri in September 2026.
A potential statewide election featuring Bailey may occur in 2028.
Market Landscape
This transition follows the high-profile 2025 resignation of the Missouri attorney general, which catalyzed a significant shift in the state's leadership structure. Bailey's move from the state's top legal office to a high-ranking federal position and back again highlights the fluid movement between state and federal roles.
The return of a former attorney general to Missouri may signal upcoming changes in local political campaigning as the 2028 election cycle approaches. Residents should watch for further announcements regarding his potential candidacy for statewide office.
The takeaway
Bailey's return to his home state after a stint in federal law enforcement illustrates the common cycle of political leaders moving between state and national appointments. Observers should monitor whether this pattern continues as other figures adjust their careers ahead of the 2028 election.
Further reading
For more on the state's leadership, visit the Missouri People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KBIA.
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