In a significant career move, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has announced his resignation to join the ranks of the FBI as co-deputy director, as the Associated Press reports.

The soon-to-be former AG's appointment comes amid sweeping changes at the FBI, signaling a shift in the bureau's focus and leadership.

Bailey, a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, will assume his new role effective Sept. 8.

This transition is part of broader reforms under FBI Director Kash Patel, focusing on restructuring and stricter scrutiny concerning past investigations, notably those related to the events of Jan. 6, 2021.

Bailey's ambitious tenure in review

Since taking office, Bailey has been vocal and active in challenging policies from the Joe Biden administration. His legal initiatives spanned various domains including immigration, environmental regulations, and gun safety.

Under his leadership, the Missouri Attorney General’s office also tackled issues surrounding transgender rights and student loan forgiveness. Bailey’s bold stances often placed him at the center of significant legal and cultural debates.

Most notably, Bailey took a firm stance against the inclusion of drag shows in public schools and pushed for restrictive measures regarding private gym bathroom policies.

Legal battles highlighted

The Missouri AG made headlines with his lawsuit against the state of New York, accusing it of interfering in the presidential elections of 2024 through legal actions related to Trump.

This case underscored his commitment to defending his allies and his readiness to engage in high-stakes interstate legal confrontations.

Bailey's tenure also included vigorous defense of Missouri’s stringent anti-abortion laws against efforts to secure abortion rights through constitutional amendments. His office championed conservative values, aligning closely with the state's majority political sentiments.

In a landmark decision, Bailey's office secured a massive $24.5 billion award from China about the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, a high-profile case that drew national attention.

From legal adviser to national security role

Prior to his role as Attorney General, Bailey served as general counsel to Gov. Mike Parson, highlighting his deep roots in state governance and legal advisory.

An Army veteran, Bailey’s career has been characterized by a mix of military service and legal expertise, preparing him for the complexities of his upcoming role at the FBI.

He will be working alongside Dan Bongino as co-deputy director, where the two are expected to guide the bureau through a period of significant transformation and reevaluation of its investigative priorities.

Governor’s next steps, community reaction

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe is set to announce Bailey’s replacement on the day following his resignation. This imminent announcement is eagerly anticipated, as it will significantly influence Missouri's legal and political landscape.

Bailey, reflecting on his career move, expressed a strong sense of duty and commitment to national service. "My life has been defined by a call to service, and I am once again answering that call, this time at the national level," he stated, emphasizing the importance of his new role in shaping federal law enforcement and security policies.

The community and Bailey’s supporters view his transition as a continuation of his commitment to public service, albeit on a broader, more impactful scale.

His tenure as Missouri AG, marked by high-profile cases and confrontations with federal policies, sets a dramatic backdrop for his new role in national security.