Trump selects loyalist Kash Patel as FBI director

President-elect Trump announced Kash Patel, a loyalist with little federal law enforcement experience, as his pick for FBI Director, citing his fight against corruption and defense of Justice. Patel, a Trump loyalist, is known for spreading baseless conspiracy theories, calling for a purge of perceived enemies in the FBI, and promoting falsehoods about the 2020 election. Critics, including former law enforcement officials, worry about his lack of qualifications and potential impact on the FBI’s mission. Patel previously worked in the Trump administration, where he drafted a memo criticizing the FBI’s handling of surveillance in the Russia investigation. Senate confirmation will be required for him to become director. Patel has been a vocal advocate for replacing civil servants deemed “anti-democratic” with “patriots,” representing a battle against the “corrupt ruling class.” His nomination, if confirmed, would ignore the tradition of FBI directors serving ten-year terms to ensure nonpartisanship. Patel has been criticized for his lack of experience and controversial views, including labeling journalists as traitors and vowing to go after perceived conspirators. His foundation, the Kash Foundation, has faced scrutiny for its finances and lack of transparency. Patel’s memoir recounts his experiences as a public defender and DOJ prosecutor, but his claims of being the lead prosecutor in the Benghazi case have been disputed. He has also faced backlash for his behavior in courtrooms, including being reprimanded by a federal judge for dressing inappropriately and unnecessary interference.

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