Dan Bongino Replacement: Who Took Over His Slot and What It Means for Conservative Talk.

When Dan Bongino, one of the most recognizable conservative voices in America, announced he was stepping away from his syndicated radio program and podcast, fans were left wondering: Who will be his replacement?

Bongino had dominated the 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET radio slot—the legendary block once held by Rush Limbaugh. His combination of ex-Secret Service experience, political insight, and passionate commentary made him a household name. But with his departure in 2025 to take a new role in public service, the broadcasting world was faced with a pivotal question: who would be the Dan Bongino replacement?

Who Is the Dan Bongino Replacement?

The official Dan Bongino replacement is Vince Coglianese, a conservative radio host and journalist best known for his afternoon drive-time program on WMAL in Washington, D.C. and his role as Editorial Director of The Daily Caller.

Coglianese was a natural choice. He had already guest-hosted Bongino’s program multiple times, had strong name recognition among conservative audiences, and was seen as someone who could balance journalistic background with fiery talk radio style.

Why Did Dan Bongino Step Away?

Before diving deeper into his replacement, it’s important to understand why Bongino vacated the slot.

• In March 2025, Bongino accepted an appointment as Deputy Director of the FBI under President Donald Trump.
• This role required stepping back from media commentary to avoid conflicts of interest.
• His final radio broadcast aired on March 14, 2025, ending a major chapter of his media career.

This left a significant gap in conservative broadcasting—one that Westwood One and Silverloch Productions needed to fill quickly.

Vince Coglianese: The Dan Bongino Replacement

Background

• Career: Vince Coglianese built his career as a political journalist before becoming a talk radio personality.
• Editorial Leadership: As Editorial Director of The Daily Caller, he oversaw conservative political coverage, giving him credibility with Bongino’s audience.
• Radio Success: At WMAL in Washington, D.C., he became a top-rated host, known for sharp commentary, humor, and deep political knowledge.

Why He Was Chosen

• Familiar to Listeners: Having substituted for Bongino, he already had buy-in from the audience.
• Strong Credentials: Both journalist and talk host, appealing to a broad conservative listener base.
• Continuity: His style aligns with Bongino’s but adds his own personality, ensuring continuity without feeling like an imitation.

Launch of the New Show

Vince Coglianese officially began as the Dan Bongino replacement on March 17, 2025. Two programs were launched:

• The VINCE Show – A three-hour syndicated radio show airing in Bongino’s former timeslot (12–3 p.m. ET).
• VINCE Podcast – A companion one-hour podcast released each weekday morning.

These programs are produced by Westwood One in partnership with Silverloch Productions, the media company co-founded by Dan and Paula Bongino.

This dual structure mirrors Bongino’s own multimedia approach, blending traditional radio with digital podcasting.

Audience Reaction to the Dan Bongino Replacement

Replacing a beloved figure like Dan Bongino was never going to be easy. However, initial reactions suggest:

• Cautious Optimism: Many listeners are giving Coglianese a fair chance because Bongino himself endorsed him.
• Style Shift: While Bongino was combative and deeply personal, Coglianese leans more on journalistic analysis and debate.
• Affiliate Retention: Over 250 stations, including large markets like Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, have continued carrying the new show—signaling strong affiliate confidence.

Industry Impact

The Dan Bongino replacement also says a lot about the direction of conservative talk radio:

• From Personality to Journalism: Limbaugh and Bongino built their brands around personality; Coglianese blends journalism with opinion.
• Podcast + Radio Hybrid: The move reflects modern audience habits—radio reaches traditional listeners, podcasts capture younger, digital audiences.
• Network Continuity: By partnering with Silverloch Productions, Westwood One ensured Bongino’s influence remains woven into the show’s DNA.

Comparing Bongino and Coglianese

FeatureDan BonginoVince CoglianeseBackgroundSecret Service agent, author, political commentatorJournalist, Editorial Director, talk radio hostStylePassionate, combative, personal storytellingAnalytical, journalistic, sharp commentarySignature PlatformThe Dan Bongino Show (radio + podcast)The VINCE Show and VINCE PodcastLegacyReplaced Rush Limbaugh in 2021, huge followingSucceeds Bongino in 2025, growing national profile

Challenges for the Dan Bongino Replacement

While Vince Coglianese is well-positioned, he faces hurdles:

• Winning Over Loyal Bongino Fans – Many tuned in specifically for Bongino’s unique personality.
• Standing Out in a Crowded Market – Conservative talk radio has many strong voices.
• Balancing Continuity with Identity – He must carry Bongino’s audience while building his own brand.

Opportunities for Growth

On the other hand, the Dan Bongino replacement brings huge opportunities:

• National Exposure: Moving from WMAL to a national syndicated platform expands Coglianese’s reach.
• Podcast Growth: With a strong digital strategy, he can capture younger audiences.
• Political Timing: Entering during a politically charged 2025 election cycle ensures relevance.

Conclusion

The Dan Bongino replacement marks a major transition in conservative media. While Bongino steps into public service, Vince Coglianese steps up to inherit his time slot and audience.

Will Coglianese become the next major talk titan like Limbaugh or Bongino? Time will tell. But one thing is clear: the 12–3 p.m. slot remains a defining battleground for conservative media influence.

Listeners, affiliates, and industry insiders will be watching closely as this new chapter unfolds.

FAQs

1. Who replaced Dan Bongino on radio?

Vince Coglianese replaced Bongino with The VINCE Show, starting March 17, 2025.

2. Why did Dan Bongino leave his show?

He stepped down after being appointed Deputy Director of the FBI by President Trump.

3. What is Vince Coglianese’s background?

He’s a conservative journalist, Editorial Director of The Daily Caller, and former WMAL radio host.

4. Is the new show nationwide?

Yes, The VINCE Show is syndicated to over 250 affiliates across the U.S.

5. Will Dan Bongino return to the media?

Uncertain—his current government role prevents commentary, but he could return in the future.