FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe stepping down early ahead of planned retirement

WASHINGTON (KABC) -- FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe is stepping down immediately, ahead of his planned retirement, two government officials familiar with the matter confirmed to ABC News.

McCabe has long been expected to retire from government this spring. He will step down early, though he will technically remain an employee of the bureau until his official retirement in March.

McCabe has been a frequent target of criticism from President Donald Trump. It is not clear if his early departure is for personal reasons or a reflection of the criticism.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.