A senior Democrat has accused Kash Patel, Donald Trump’s controversial nominee for FBI director, of secretly orchestrating a purge of FBI agents before even being confirmed. Senator Dick Durbin, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, claims Patel directed firings despite having no official authority as a private citizen, contradicting his Senate testimony.
Durbin called the alleged actions “beyond the pale” and urged an investigation. According to reports, Patel’s directives were funneled through White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, Acting Attorney General Emil Bove, and a newly formed FBI advisory team. A meeting on January 29 allegedly outlined plans to remove senior FBI officials involved in Trump-related investigations.
Patel denied knowledge of such actions during his confirmation hearing, but if proven, the allegations could suggest perjury. Critics fear Patel would politicize the FBI if confirmed. A final Senate vote on his nomination is expected next week.
