Andrew Bailey Resigned From Federal FBI Post
Former Missouri attorney general returns to state after year-long stint as FBI co-deputy director.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in People
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Andrew Bailey has resigned from his role as co-deputy director of the FBI after serving in the position for approximately one year. He is returning to Missouri to be with his family following the departure from his federal post.
Why it matters
Bailey previously served as Missouri attorney general from 2023 to 2025 before moving to the FBI, and his return to the state has sparked speculation regarding a potential run for statewide office in 2028.
The FBI employs 38,000 personnel across 56 regional field offices and 60 overseas law enforcement attachés. Bailey was appointed to his role without Senate confirmation and served for roughly one year.
The players
Andrew Bailey
Former Missouri attorney general and short-term co-deputy director of the FBI.
Catherine Hanaway
Current Missouri attorney general who succeeded Bailey following his 2025 resignation.
Kash Patel
The Director of the FBI who oversees the agency's 38,000 employees.
Mike Kehoe
The Governor of Missouri who has publicly stated his intent to seek re-election in 2028.
The details
Bailey vacated the Missouri attorney general seat in 2025, which led to the succession of Catherine Hanaway in the role. He stated that his decision to leave the federal agency was motivated by a desire to spend time with his family, while noting he maintained a functional relationship with FBI Director Kash Patel during his tenure.
Timeline
Andrew Bailey began his tenure as Missouri attorney general in 2023.
He resigned as Missouri attorney general in 2025.
Bailey announced his return to Missouri on September 30, 2026.
Market Landscape
Bailey's shift from federal administration back to the state level directly impacts the political landscape ahead of the 2028 election cycle. His return follows a pattern of high-level officials moving between federal appointments and state-level governance.
Operators in Missouri should monitor potential shifts in the state attorney general's office priorities following this leadership transition. Bailey’s future political movements may influence state-level regulatory focus heading into 2028.
The takeaway
Bailey's return from a federal leadership role to his home state often signals an impending pivot back to regional political activity. Business owners should track his public statements and potential 2028 platform to anticipate shifts in state regulatory or legal policy.
Further reading
For more background on leadership changes in the region, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KBIA.
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