California Democrat Rep. Adam Schiff, a central figure in the investigation of alleged Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, could soon find himself the target of an FBI probe over his role in promoting the now-debunked conspiracy theory that President Donald Trump colluded with Russian President Vladimir Putin to steal the election.

The possible investigation stems from newly appointed FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino’s comments, which came during one of his final podcast episodes before he officially took the position. Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and NYPD officer, made it clear that he would not let go of the Russia collusion story, which he believes was an orchestrated hoax that put U.S. international relations in jeopardy. Bongino raised specific concerns about Schiff’s involvement in perpetuating this false narrative, calling the whole affair a significant breach of trust and an attack on the integrity of American democracy.

Bongino directly addressed Schiff in his remarks, stating, “Why is Adam Schiff so worried? I strongly encourage you to go back and take another look today at the Russia collusion hoax.” He emphasized the importance of the investigation, despite the passage of time since the initial claims were made. Bongino, who was appointed to the FBI by President Trump over the weekend, described the situation as a serious matter that involved multiple government agencies and individuals working together to fabricate a story that had the potential to severely damage U.S. relations with a nuclear power. He argued that such actions could have lasting negative consequences on international relations and that those responsible needed to be held accountable.

The FBI and the Department of Justice, according to Bongino, were complicit in creating a narrative that he believes was never supported by credible evidence. “We had the FBI in conjunction with the Department of Justice, officials in Congress, foreign governments, and intel people fabricate a story,” Bongino said. “It could have caused and done serious long-term harm to international relations with a nuclear-powered foe. It’s kind of a big freakin’ deal.”

Bongino continued to express his frustration with the entire situation, calling for a full investigation and accountability for those involved in spreading the false narrative. He stated, “You do not get to alter or try to change the course of electoral politics by fabricating a story and hijacking the justice system to give the patina of truth to a fake story.” He specifically pointed the finger at Schiff, who was one of the most vocal proponents of the Russia collusion theory during the investigation.

“The ringmaster of that circus? Yes, Adam Schiff, and no, I’m not letting it go,” Bongino declared.

The comments from Bongino come at a time when political divisions in the U.S. remain deep, and the legacy of the Trump-Russia investigation continues to be a source of contention. The investigation, which was led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, ultimately found no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, despite extensive inquiry into the matter. Nevertheless, the claims of Russian interference in the election continue to dominate political discourse, and the individuals who pushed the narrative, such as Schiff, have remained under scrutiny for their role in advancing it.

Bongino, who has been an outspoken critic of the Russia collusion hoax, made it clear that he intended to continue pursuing the truth and uncovering what he believes to be a concerted effort to deceive the American public. “I want to find out what happened because it can never happen again,” Bongino said. “Not to a Democrat, not a Republican, not a Libertarian, not to any United States citizen.”

In a more personal reflection, Bongino shared that his podcast and political commentary days were coming to an end, as he prepared to fully transition into his new role as Deputy Director of the FBI. “It’s not going to be the last show, but we’ve only got a few more left with you,” Bongino said, addressing his audience. “I’m focused on getting to work at the bureau.”

Despite his departure from political commentary, Bongino assured his audience that his wife and daughters, who have been instrumental in managing his brand, would continue to create content. Bongino also discussed his vision for his future role at the FBI, noting that the bureau “belongs to the American people” and he would dedicate himself to serving them.

As Bongino prepares to step into his new role, his comments have sparked renewed interest in the FBI’s handling of the Trump-Russia investigation, and Schiff’s potential involvement in perpetuating the narrative. Whether or not the FBI will take action against Schiff remains to be seen, but Bongino’s statements signal a desire for accountability and transparency in the aftermath of one of the most controversial investigations in modern U.S. political history.