FBI Director Kash Patel is facing major backlash after reports alleged he used a $60 million FBI jet to attend his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins’ performance at a wrestling event in Pennsylvania. 
Critics say it’s a misuse of taxpayer funds, especially during a government shutdown, while the FBI defends the trip as compliant — saying Patel reimbursed the cost in advance per bureau policy. 
Meanwhile, Patel has fired a senior aviation official, raising questions about retaliation.

FBI Director Kash Patel Under Fire for Alleged Jet Misuse for Girlfriend

FBI Director Kash Patel Under Fire for Using FBI Jet to Fly Girlfriend

Kash Patel, US President Donald Trump's FBI director, is under fresh scrutiny after an explosive confrontation with his own security team at the National Rifle Association's annual convention in Atlanta. According to a New York Times report, Patel erupted when members of an FBI SWAT unit assigned to protect his girlfriend, 27-year-old singer Alexis Wilkins, stepped away from their posts after determining she was safe.<h2>Patel goes berserk</h2>According to the report, Patel had arranged for an entire SWAT team from the bureau’s Atlanta field office to shadow Wilkins at the conference, where she sang the Star Spangled Banner. Current and former officials told the Times the level of protection she received was "highly unusual," with one calling it a glaring misuse of government resources.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-meeting-with-trump-won-t-melt-zohran-mamdani-new-york-mayor-elect-says-potus-still-a-fascist-1763957168723">One meeting with Trump won't melt Zohran Mamdani? New York Mayor-elect says POTUS still a 'fascist'</a>Christopher O’Leary, a former Marine and FBI agent who once led high-risk missions, said "The assignment of SWAT-qualified special agents to guard his girlfriend are indicative of his lack of leadership experience, judgment and humility"<h2>Mad in love?</h2>The controversy follows another report, from MS Now, which found Patel had diverted officers from Nashville’s SWAT unit – Wilkins’ hometown – to protect her earlier this month. Officials quoted in the story called the decision unprecedented and warned it could weaken responses to emergencies, including mass shootings.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-defends-trump-s-quiet-piggy-insult-calls-criticism-deliberate-deception-to-wage-war-on-president-1763625900001">White House jumps to defend Trump’s 'quiet piggy' insult, says 'you have to be able to take it'</a>Agents in Salt Lake City were also ordered to protect Wilkins at a September event despite having just worked extended hours after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the Times said. "There is no legitimate justification for this. This is a clear abuse of position and misuse of government resources," O’Leary told MS Now. "She is not his spouse, does not live in the same house or even in the same city."Democratic congressman Eric Swalwell blasted Patel on X, saying the director refused similar protection for democratic lawmakers facing threats. "Can only conclude he wants us dead," he wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">I don’t want anything to happen to <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBIDirectorKash</a> or his girlfriend. Protect her if she’s threatened. It’s just F’d up that he REFUSES to protect me and my kids from MULTIPLE specific death threats. Same for other Dem colleagues. Can only conclude he wants us dead. <a href="https://t.co/nI4etRdLVi">https://t.co/nI4etRdLVi</a>&mdash; Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSwalwell/status/1990445187844464863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Patel has faced a string of scandals over his personal use of taxpayer resources, including a $60 million government jet trip to watch Wilkins perform. Wilkins has defended the security, posting screenshots of violent threats she received, including messages wishing for her death.&nbsp;

Kash Patel is facing blowback again after reportedly erupting at FBI SWAT teams he had ordered to guard his girlfriend at events, sparking accusations of abusing power and misusing resources. Scroll for full story.

Kash Patel, US President Donald Trump's FBI director, is under fresh scrutiny after an explosive confrontation with his own security team at the National Rifle Association's annual convention in Atlanta. According to a New York Times report, Patel erupted when members of an FBI SWAT unit assigned to protect his girlfriend, 27-year-old singer Alexis Wilkins, stepped away from their posts after determining she was safe. Patel goes berserk According to the report, Patel had arranged for an entire SWAT team from the bureau’s Atlanta field office to shadow Wilkins at the conference, where she sang the Star Spangled Banner. Current and former officials told the Times the level of protection she received was "highly unusual," with one calling it a glaring misuse of government resources. Also read | One meeting with Trump won't melt Zohran Mamdani? New York Mayor-elect says POTUS still a 'fascist' Christopher O’Leary, a former Marine and FBI agent who once led high-risk missions, said "The assignment of SWAT-qualified special agents to guard his girlfriend are indicative of his lack of leadership experience, judgment and humility" Mad in love? The controversy follows another report, from MS Now, which found Patel had diverted officers from Nashville’s SWAT unit – Wilkins’ hometown – to protect her earlier this month. Officials quoted in the story called the decision unprecedented and warned it could weaken responses to emergencies, including mass shootings. Also read | White House jumps to defend Trump’s 'quiet piggy' insult, says 'you have to be able to take it' Agents in Salt Lake City were also ordered to protect Wilkins at a September event despite having just worked extended hours after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the Times said. "There is no legitimate justification for this. This is a clear abuse of position and misuse of government resources," O’Leary told MS Now. "She is not his spouse, does not live in the same house or even in the same city." Democratic congressman Eric Swalwell blasted Patel on X, saying the director refused similar protection for democratic lawmakers facing threats. "Can only conclude he wants us dead," he wrote.

Kash Patel is facing blowback again after reportedly erupting at FBI SWAT teams he had ordered to guard his girlfriend at events, sparking accusations of abusing power and misusing resources. Scroll for full story.

Kash Patel blows up at FBI SWAT team for not playing bodyguard for girlfriend Alexis Wilkins

FBI Director Kash Patel announced that his team, during his trip through Asia, signed a "historic" deal with China to halt the fentanyl precursors used in manufacturing fentanyl. He claimed that the Chinese authorities fully designated and listed 13 fentanyl precursors and agreed to control seven subsidiary chemicals in production. Citing President Donald Trump's engagement with Chinese leader Xi as a factor in the development, Patel said the move would save “tens of thousands of lives.”&nbsp;Sharing details of his Asia trip, which included a trip to Beijing, the first trip of any FBI director in more than a decade, Patel on X posted, "Our team just returned from an important trip through Asia to build on our key partnerships and work together on stopping threats before they reach American shores".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-bbc-vs-trump-fiasco-australia-s-abc-accused-of-deceptive-editing-of-us-president-s-speech-1763019068545">After BBC vs Trump fiasco, Australia’s ABC accused of deceptive editing of US president’s speech</a>&nbsp;"One of the most important stops we had on this trip was in China to address the fentanyl crisis – an issue killing so many Americans year after year, and one that @realDonaldTrump has given his team a mandate to defeat. This was the first time in a decade that an FBI Director has received an audience with his counterpart to discuss the fentanyl crisis directly". "I’ve said before: targeting the precursors is the key – this is the agent that turns fentanyl into a deadly chemical that destroys lives. Cut off the precursors and you crush the drug trafficking industry and starve critical deadly drug pipelines fueled by cartels in Mexico", he added.<h3>Fentanyl crisis in USA</h3>The US Department of Health and Human Services officially declared the opioid crisis, of which synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, make a major chunk, a public health emergency under federal law. The country witnesses around 70,000-75,000 overdose deaths related to synthetic opioids annually. In 2023, about 72,776 deaths were attributed to synthetic opioids. According to a survey, about 7.5 per cent of United States adults reported illicit fentanyl use in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-their-loss-says-ramaphosa-on-us-absence-from-g20-summit-but-what-s-behind-trump-s-boycott-white-genocide-diversity-climate-and-more-1763025139250">'Their loss,' says Ramaphosa on US absence from G20 summit, but what’s behind Trump’s boycott? ‘White Genocide’, diversity, climate and more</a>&nbsp;After taking charge as FBI director, Patel framed the fentanyl crisis as a tier-one national security problem, not merely a drug problem. He stressed international cooperation with countries like China, Mexico and India to disrupt the supply chains. Patel accused the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) of using fentanyl precursors as "chemical warfare" or strategic harm against the United States.&nbsp;

After taking charge as FBI Director, Patel framed the fentanyl crisis as a tier-one national security problem, not merely a drug issue, and stressed the importance of international cooperation to tackle it effectively.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced that his team, during his trip through Asia, signed a "historic" deal with China to halt the fentanyl precursors used in manufacturing fentanyl. He claimed that the Chinese authorities fully designated and listed 13 fentanyl precursors and agreed to control seven subsidiary chemicals in production. Citing President Donald Trump's engagement with Chinese leader Xi as a factor in the development, Patel said the move would save “tens of thousands of lives.” Sharing details of his Asia trip, which included a trip to Beijing, the first trip of any FBI director in more than a decade, Patel on X posted, "Our team just returned from an important trip through Asia to build on our key partnerships and work together on stopping threats before they reach American shores". Also Read: After BBC vs Trump fiasco, Australia’s ABC accused of deceptive editing of US president’s speech "One of the most important stops we had on this trip was in China to address the fentanyl crisis – an issue killing so many Americans year after year, and one that @realDonaldTrump has given his team a mandate to defeat. This was the first time in a decade that an FBI Director has received an audience with his counterpart to discuss the fentanyl crisis directly". "I’ve said before: targeting the precursors is the key – this is the agent that turns fentanyl into a deadly chemical that destroys lives. Cut off the precursors and you crush the drug trafficking industry and starve critical deadly drug pipelines fueled by cartels in Mexico", he added. Fentanyl crisis in USA The US Department of Health and Human Services officially declared the opioid crisis, of which synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, make a major chunk, a public health emergency under federal law. The country witnesses around 70,000-75,000 overdose deaths related to synthetic opioids annually. In 2023, about 72,776 deaths were attributed to synthetic opioids. According to a survey, about 7.5 per cent of United States adults reported illicit fentanyl use in the last 12 months. Also Read: 'Their loss,' says Ramaphosa on US absence from G20 summit, but what’s behind Trump’s boycott? ‘White Genocide’, diversity, climate and more After taking charge as FBI director, Patel framed the fentanyl crisis as a tier-one national security problem, not merely a drug problem. He stressed international cooperation with countries like China, Mexico and India to disrupt the supply chains. Patel accused the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) of using fentanyl precursors as "chemical warfare" or strategic harm against the United States.

After taking charge as FBI Director, Patel framed the fentanyl crisis as a tier-one national security problem, not merely a drug issue, and stressed the importance of international cooperation to tackle it effectively.

FBI Director Patel announces agreement with China to halt fentanyl precursors | Know more about Opioid Crisis in US

FBI Director Kash Patel has faced criticism for reportedly using a government jet to meet his girlfriend in Pennsylvania. While the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has now come to his rescue, claiming that no rules were violated in the usage. Kashyap has also defended himself and called the allegations “disgustingly baseless” and politically motivated. He has also defended his girlfriend Alexis Wilkins saying that she is a 'true patriot'. The controversy erupted after former FBI agent and conservative commentator Kyle Seraphin alleged that Patel flew on a USD 60 million FBI jet to watch Wilkins' performance at a wrestling event at Penn State University on October 25.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on X, Patel slammed those whom he called “uninformed internet anarchists” and said that the “baseless rumours” will not distract him from his job at the FBI. He also said that he does not have an objection to people criticising him, but they shouldn't go after those in FBI who are doing great work or his family. &nbsp;Defending her girlfriend, he said, “The disgustingly baseless attacks against Alexis — a true patriot and the woman I’m proud to call my partner in life — are beyond pathetic. She is a rock-solid conservative and a country music sensation who has done more for this nation than most will in ten lifetimes. I’m so blessed she’s in my life. Attacking her isn’t just wrong — it’s cowardly and jeopardizes our safety. My love of family will always be my cornerstone, and you will never tear that down or keep me from them.”&nbsp;Meanwwhile, Ben Williamson, the FBI's Assistant Director for Public Affairs, defended Patel's travel and called the controversy “disingenuous and dumb.” “FBI Directors are “required use travelers” under federal regulations - meaning they are mandated by Congress to travel on a government plane even on personal travel. They’re actually barred from flying commercial. The reason for this is to maintain access to secure communications equipment in the event of an emergency,” he said.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20251103/image-1762157148436.png"></figure>

FBI Director Kash Patel denied claims he misused a $60M FBI jet to visit his girlfriend, singer Alexis Wilkins, calling the allegations false and political. The FBI said no rules were broken. Patel defended Wilkins as a patriot and condemned attacks on her 

FBI Director Kash Patel has faced criticism for reportedly using a government jet to meet his girlfriend in Pennsylvania. While the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has now come to his rescue, claiming that no rules were violated in the usage. Kashyap has also defended himself and called the allegations “disgustingly baseless” and politically motivated. He has also defended his girlfriend Alexis Wilkins saying that she is a 'true patriot'. The controversy erupted after former FBI agent and conservative commentator Kyle Seraphin alleged that Patel flew on a USD 60 million FBI jet to watch Wilkins' performance at a wrestling event at Penn State University on October 25. In a post on X, Patel slammed those whom he called “uninformed internet anarchists” and said that the “baseless rumours” will not distract him from his job at the FBI. He also said that he does not have an objection to people criticising him, but they shouldn't go after those in FBI who are doing great work or his family. Defending her girlfriend, he said, “The disgustingly baseless attacks against Alexis — a true patriot and the woman I’m proud to call my partner in life — are beyond pathetic. She is a rock-solid conservative and a country music sensation who has done more for this nation than most will in ten lifetimes. I’m so blessed she’s in my life. Attacking her isn’t just wrong — it’s cowardly and jeopardizes our safety. My love of family will always be my cornerstone, and you will never tear that down or keep me from them.” Meanwwhile, Ben Williamson, the FBI's Assistant Director for Public Affairs, defended Patel's travel and called the controversy “disingenuous and dumb.” “FBI Directors are “required use travelers” under federal regulations - meaning they are mandated by Congress to travel on a government plane even on personal travel. They’re actually barred from flying commercial. The reason for this is to maintain access to secure communications equipment in the event of an emergency,” he said.

FBI Director Kash Patel denied claims he misused a $60M FBI jet to visit his girlfriend, singer Alexis Wilkins, calling the allegations false and political. The FBI said no rules were broken. Patel defended Wilkins as a patriot and condemned attacks on her&nbsp;

'She's a patriot': Kash Patel slams critics for 'baseless rumours' over using $60 million FBI jet for meeting girlfriend Alexis Wilkins

As the U.S. government shutdown drags on and federal workers go unpaid, FBI Director Kash Patel is facing a storm of criticism.
Reports say Patel used a government-registered jet to attend his girlfriend’s performance at a wrestling event in Pennsylvania raising fresh questions about misuse of public resources.
While Patel insists it’s mandatory for him to use government aircraft, this isn’t his first time facing scrutiny for personal trips on the Bureau’s jet.
Here’s how the controversy unfolded and why it’s sparking outrage across Washington.

FBI boss Kash Patel jets off on govt plane to see girlfriend as workers go unpaid amid shutdown 

Candace Owens launched an attack on FBI Director Kash Patel, saying that she does “not trust him at all.” She accused him of being “upset” because Tulsi Gabbard and Joe Kent are “trying to do their jobs and solve” the murder of Charlie Kirk, a Trump ally who was assassinated on September 10. Owens, a former Turning Point USA member, slammed Patel after The New York Times claimed in an article that he was “alarmed” by an inquiry by Kent, who leads the National Counterterrorism Center.Sharing the image of the article, Owens wrote on X, “This article is literally about how Kash Patel is upset that Joe Kent and Tulsi Gabbard are trying to do their jobs and solve the Charlie Kirk murder case.”“It’s like Kash Patel wants to be the sole point person on this—why?” she added. “I do not trust him at all.”In the article, The New York Times reported, “The inquiry by Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism center, alarmed Kash Patel, the director of the F.B.I. Mr. Patel and other senior officials believed Mr. Kent was overstepping, treading on F.B.I. responsibilities and potentially interfering with the investigation and the prosecution of the suspect, Tyler Robinson.”The article further reported, citing people familiar with the matter, that the FBI director was “troubled” because Kent went through the FBI material related to the case. It added that Kent’s efforts were “a topic at a White House meeting” which included Patel, Kent and Gabbard. Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles were also present at the meeting.Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”Kirk, 31, was shot dead during a university event in Utah on September 10. Tyler Robinson, the prime accused, was apprehended by the police just 33 hours after his assassination.

Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”

Candace Owens launched an attack on FBI Director Kash Patel, saying that she does “not trust him at all.” She accused him of being “upset” because Tulsi Gabbard and Joe Kent are “trying to do their jobs and solve” the murder of Charlie Kirk, a Trump ally who was assassinated on September 10. Owens, a former Turning Point USA member, slammed Patel after The New York Times claimed in an article that he was “alarmed” by an inquiry by Kent, who leads the National Counterterrorism Center. Sharing the image of the article, Owens wrote on X, “This article is literally about how Kash Patel is upset that Joe Kent and Tulsi Gabbard are trying to do their jobs and solve the Charlie Kirk murder case.” “It’s like Kash Patel wants to be the sole point person on this—why?” she added. “I do not trust him at all.” In the article, The New York Times reported, “The inquiry by Joe Kent, the director of the counterterrorism center, alarmed Kash Patel, the director of the F.B.I. Mr. Patel and other senior officials believed Mr. Kent was overstepping, treading on F.B.I. responsibilities and potentially interfering with the investigation and the prosecution of the suspect, Tyler Robinson.” The article further reported, citing people familiar with the matter, that the FBI director was “troubled” because Kent went through the FBI material related to the case. It added that Kent’s efforts were “a topic at a White House meeting” which included Patel, Kent and Gabbard. Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles were also present at the meeting. Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.” Kirk, 31, was shot dead during a university event in Utah on September 10. Tyler Robinson, the prime accused, was apprehended by the police just 33 hours after his assassination.

Earlier in her podcast, Owens said that she wants a “war” with Turning Point USA and everyone who was around Kirk on the day of his assassination, adding that she is determined to find out “what the hell happened on September 10th.”

‘I do not trust him at all’: Candace Owens questions Kash Patel on Charlie Kirk murder case

Kash Patel, the Director of the Foreign Bureau of Investigation (FBI), fired an employee for displaying a Pride flag in his workplace. The employee was undergoing new agent training at the FBI’s academy in Quantico, Virginia. He received a letter from Patel ordering his immediate dismissal. The employee, during his non-agent role, received several awards for service during his career, had also been a field office diversity program coordinator, and displayed a Pride flag at his workstation.&nbsp;Patel did not specify the reason in the notification of his firing, but he said he agent trainee being summarily dismissed for past “poor judgment” and “an inappropriate display of political signage,” sources told CNN.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chevron-el-segundo-refinery-fire-los-angeles-2025-1759477525735">Massive fire erupts at Chevron refinery near Los Angeles; no injuries reported</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, FBI veterans told CNN that displaying the pride flag at one's desk would not violate any past FBI policy. But this happened due to US President Donald Trump's ideology of getting rid of "Woke" ideology.&nbsp;The firing comes less than a week after Patel fired over a dozen other FBI employees who took a knee while conducting crowd control in 2020 after being confronted by a group of demonstrators in the nation’s capital.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/manchester-attack-uk-police-killed-one-of-three-victims-admits-chief-constable-1759490511532">Manchester attack: UK Police killed one of three victims, admits chief constable</a>&nbsp;“After reviewing the facts and circumstances and considering your probationary status, I have determined that you exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage in your work area during your previous assignment in the Los Angeles Field Office," Patel wrote, without specifically referencing the pride flag.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-10-countries-uranium-reserves-2023-1759474943170">Global Uranium reserves: Top 10 countries with the largest Uranium reserves</a>&nbsp;"You are being summarily dismissed from your position as a New Agent Trainee at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and removed from the federal service," the letter added.

Patel did not specify the reason in the notification of his firing, but he said he agent trainee being summarily dismissed for past poor judgment and an inappropriate display of political signage.



Kash Patel, the Director of the Foreign Bureau of Investigation (FBI), fired an employee for displaying a Pride flag in his workplace. The employee was undergoing new agent training at the FBI’s academy in Quantico, Virginia. He received a letter from Patel ordering his immediate dismissal. The employee, during his non-agent role, received several awards for service during his career, had also been a field office diversity program coordinator, and displayed a Pride flag at his workstation. Patel did not specify the reason in the notification of his firing, but he said he agent trainee being summarily dismissed for past “poor judgment” and “an inappropriate display of political signage,” sources told CNN. Also read: Massive fire erupts at Chevron refinery near Los Angeles; no injuries reported Meanwhile, FBI veterans told CNN that displaying the pride flag at one's desk would not violate any past FBI policy. But this happened due to US President Donald Trump's ideology of getting rid of "Woke" ideology. The firing comes less than a week after Patel fired over a dozen other FBI employees who took a knee while conducting crowd control in 2020 after being confronted by a group of demonstrators in the nation’s capital. Also read: Manchester attack: UK Police killed one of three victims, admits chief constable “After reviewing the facts and circumstances and considering your probationary status, I have determined that you exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage in your work area during your previous assignment in the Los Angeles Field Office," Patel wrote, without specifically referencing the pride flag. Also read: Global Uranium reserves: Top 10 countries with the largest Uranium reserves "You are being summarily dismissed from your position as a New Agent Trainee at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and removed from the federal service," the letter added.

Patel did not specify the reason in the notification of his firing, but he said he agent trainee being summarily dismissed for past poor judgment and an inappropriate display of political signage.&nbsp;

‘Inappropriate display’: Kash Patel fires FBI employee for displaying Pride flag at work desk

When Donald Trump named Kash Patel as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), it was framed by allies as a triumph of “reform". In reality, it has been a disaster. Patel is not a guardian of law enforcement independence. He is a partisan soldier, a conspiracy theorist in a suit, and a man whose contempt for democratic norms makes him uniquely unfit to oversee the FBI. Even in Washington’s long history of controversial appointments, Patel stands out as a catastrophic choice — one who threatens to corrode an institution already straining under decades of scandal and politicisation.<h2>A Director With a Grievance, Not a Mission</h2>The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite. His career has been built not on investigative integrity but on weaponising grievances. His book Government Gangsters — a feverish screed against what he calls the “deep state” — lists dozens of public servants as enemies of America. Critics were right to call it an “enemies list".&nbsp;&nbsp;That book alone should have disqualified him from ever serving as head of a nonpartisan law enforcement body. To name such a man at the FBI’s helm is like giving J Edgar Hoover’s paranoia a second life, but without Hoover’s instinct for institutional preservation. Patel entered office not as a servant of the law, but as a man determined to settle scores.<h2>The Epstein Files Betrayal</h2>Patel’s unfitness has been most glaring in his handling of the Epstein files. Before his appointment, he tantalised the public with promises of sweeping disclosures, hinting that the FBI would finally expose the powerful figures tied to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. Those words electrified his base, who saw Patel as a truth-teller poised to pierce decades of elite cover-ups.&nbsp;Yet once he assumed power, Patel reversed course. In a five-hour House Judiciary Committee hearing this month, he invoked legal restrictions to justify withholding crucial materials, from alleged client lists to suspicious bank transfers flagged by regulators. When pressed by Democrats, Patel sneered: “Should I break the law to satisfy your curiosity?”This line is emblematic of his hypocrisy. For years, Patel treated the Epstein files as a cudgel — proof, he suggested, of corruption at the highest levels. Now that he controls them, he hides behind technicalities. The bait-and-switch reeks not of fidelity to the law but of calculated evasion.&nbsp;Worse, Patel has left survivors and victims’ families in limbo. They were promised accountability, yet under his watch, the Epstein investigation looks more like a burial than a reckoning.<h2>Retaliation Disguised as 'Reform'</h2>Patel has also overseen a wave of firings that reek of political retaliation. Veteran agents allege they were dismissed for pursuing politically inconvenient investigations — the very kind of independence the FBI was designed to protect. Lawsuits are already mounting, and whistleblower complaints suggest a culture of fear has taken root. Patel defends these purges as “reform.” In truth, they hollow out the FBI’s professional core, replacing seasoned investigators with loyalists more concerned with ideology than evidence. The Bureau is weaker, less independent, and more beholden to partisan winds than at any point since Hoover’s reign. This is not reform. It is sabotage.<h2>The Director of Conspiracies</h2>Patel’s credibility was never rooted in fact. He has long trafficked in conspiracy theories that should automatically disqualify any candidate for high office. He has promoted QAnon-adjacent rhetoric. He has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the 2020 election. He has indulged in anti-vaccine misinformation during a global pandemic. These are not minor lapses in judgment. They are proof of a worldview unmoored from evidence — precisely the opposite of what the FBI requires from its leader.&nbsp;In congressional hearings, Patel has doubled down on this recklessness. His confrontations with lawmakers reveal a man more interested in grandstanding than answering questions. When Senator Cory Booker accused him of endangering democratic accountability, Patel smirked. When Representative Adam Schiff pressed him on partisan bias, Patel lashed back with insults. Such swagger may thrill his supporters, but it corrodes the dignity of the office he holds.The FBI Director cannot behave like a talk-radio provocateur. Yet that is exactly what Patel has become.<h2>The Charlie Kirk Debacle</h2>Patel’s recklessness is not just rhetorical; it has concrete consequences. When conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed earlier this year, Patel rushed to announce that the suspect was in custody. That claim proved misleading at best and false at worst. The FBI under his command mishandled communications so badly that lawmakers demanded immediate clarification. A Director who cannot manage the basic responsibility of accurate public information cannot be trusted with the far weightier matters of counterterrorism, organised crime, or foreign espionage. The Kirk case is not a minor embarrassment. It is a symptom of deeper rot — a leadership style defined by haste, arrogance, and disregard for facts.<h2>The danger to the Institution</h2>The FBI is not sacred. It has a long, troubling history of overreach, from Hoover’s files on civil rights leaders to the botched handling of the 2020 election. But even in its worst moments, the Bureau retained some veneer of professionalism, some recognition that its legitimacy depended on restraint. Patel is shredding even that. His leadership has already driven public trust in the FBI to historic lows. Gallup and Pew surveys show confidence collapsing across the political spectrum. Each time Patel leans into grievance politics, he confirms the worst fears of his critics: that the Bureau is no longer a guardian of justice but a partisan weapon.&nbsp;This matters. The FBI controls extraordinary powers — surveillance, subpoenas, counterintelligence operations, prosecutions. In the wrong hands, those powers can tilt elections, crush dissent, and undermine democracy itself. To entrust them to Patel is to hand a loaded weapon to a man who has shown again and again that he cannot be trusted.&nbsp;America has endured controversial FBI Directors before. Hoover abused his office for half a century. James Comey became a lightning rod for his handling of the Clinton and Trump investigations. But neither man entered the job with Patel’s combination of paranoia, grievance, and open disdain for institutional independence. Patel is not merely a bad fit. He is a mortal threat to the Bureau’s credibility — and by extension, to the rule of law itself. If the FBI becomes a tool of partisan vengeance, no American is safe from its abuses.<h2>Congress Must Act</h2>The time for patience has passed. Congressional oversight must be relentless. Subpoenas should fly. Depositions must be compelled. Lawsuits from wrongfully terminated agents should be expedited. Patel’s every action should be scrutinised not as the ordinary mistakes of a new director, but as evidence of a man unfit for the role he holds. If Patel cannot — or will not — restore the FBI’s neutrality, then Congress must move toward the most drastic remedies available: demanding his resignation or initiating the process for removal.&nbsp;Kash Patel is not suited to lead the FBI. His enemies list, his betrayals on the Epstein files, his retaliatory purges, his indulgence of conspiracy theories, and his reckless public missteps have already damaged the Bureau’s credibility beyond repair. Every day he remains in office, the FBI drifts further from the impartial guardian it was meant to be and closer to a partisan weapon wielded against political opponents.&nbsp;America deserves better. If Patel will not step aside, Congress must force the issue. The survival of democratic accountability depends on it.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Why Kash Patel must go: The FBI’s integrity is at stake

When Donald Trump named Kash Patel as Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), it was framed by allies as a triumph of “reform". In reality, it has been a disaster. Patel is not a guardian of law enforcement independence. He is a partisan soldier, a conspiracy theorist in a suit, and a man whose contempt for democratic norms makes him uniquely unfit to oversee the FBI. Even in Washington’s long history of controversial appointments, Patel stands out as a catastrophic choice — one who threatens to corrode an institution already straining under decades of scandal and politicisation. A Director With a Grievance, Not a Mission The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite. His career has been built not on investigative integrity but on weaponising grievances. His book Government Gangsters — a feverish screed against what he calls the “deep state” — lists dozens of public servants as enemies of America. Critics were right to call it an “enemies list". That book alone should have disqualified him from ever serving as head of a nonpartisan law enforcement body. To name such a man at the FBI’s helm is like giving J Edgar Hoover’s paranoia a second life, but without Hoover’s instinct for institutional preservation. Patel entered office not as a servant of the law, but as a man determined to settle scores. The Epstein Files Betrayal Patel’s unfitness has been most glaring in his handling of the Epstein files. Before his appointment, he tantalised the public with promises of sweeping disclosures, hinting that the FBI would finally expose the powerful figures tied to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. Those words electrified his base, who saw Patel as a truth-teller poised to pierce decades of elite cover-ups. Yet once he assumed power, Patel reversed course. In a five-hour House Judiciary Committee hearing this month, he invoked legal restrictions to justify withholding crucial materials, from alleged client lists to suspicious bank transfers flagged by regulators. When pressed by Democrats, Patel sneered: “Should I break the law to satisfy your curiosity?” This line is emblematic of his hypocrisy. For years, Patel treated the Epstein files as a cudgel — proof, he suggested, of corruption at the highest levels. Now that he controls them, he hides behind technicalities. The bait-and-switch reeks not of fidelity to the law but of calculated evasion. Worse, Patel has left survivors and victims’ families in limbo. They were promised accountability, yet under his watch, the Epstein investigation looks more like a burial than a reckoning. Retaliation Disguised as 'Reform' Patel has also overseen a wave of firings that reek of political retaliation. Veteran agents allege they were dismissed for pursuing politically inconvenient investigations — the very kind of independence the FBI was designed to protect. Lawsuits are already mounting, and whistleblower complaints suggest a culture of fear has taken root. Patel defends these purges as “reform.” In truth, they hollow out the FBI’s professional core, replacing seasoned investigators with loyalists more concerned with ideology than evidence. The Bureau is weaker, less independent, and more beholden to partisan winds than at any point since Hoover’s reign. This is not reform. It is sabotage. The Director of Conspiracies Patel’s credibility was never rooted in fact. He has long trafficked in conspiracy theories that should automatically disqualify any candidate for high office. He has promoted QAnon-adjacent rhetoric. He has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the 2020 election. He has indulged in anti-vaccine misinformation during a global pandemic. These are not minor lapses in judgment. They are proof of a worldview unmoored from evidence — precisely the opposite of what the FBI requires from its leader. In congressional hearings, Patel has doubled down on this recklessness. His confrontations with lawmakers reveal a man more interested in grandstanding than answering questions. When Senator Cory Booker accused him of endangering democratic accountability, Patel smirked. When Representative Adam Schiff pressed him on partisan bias, Patel lashed back with insults. Such swagger may thrill his supporters, but it corrodes the dignity of the office he holds. The FBI Director cannot behave like a talk-radio provocateur. Yet that is exactly what Patel has become. The Charlie Kirk Debacle Patel’s recklessness is not just rhetorical; it has concrete consequences. When conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed earlier this year, Patel rushed to announce that the suspect was in custody. That claim proved misleading at best and false at worst. The FBI under his command mishandled communications so badly that lawmakers demanded immediate clarification. A Director who cannot manage the basic responsibility of accurate public information cannot be trusted with the far weightier matters of counterterrorism, organised crime, or foreign espionage. The Kirk case is not a minor embarrassment. It is a symptom of deeper rot — a leadership style defined by haste, arrogance, and disregard for facts. The danger to the Institution The FBI is not sacred. It has a long, troubling history of overreach, from Hoover’s files on civil rights leaders to the botched handling of the 2020 election. But even in its worst moments, the Bureau retained some veneer of professionalism, some recognition that its legitimacy depended on restraint. Patel is shredding even that. His leadership has already driven public trust in the FBI to historic lows. Gallup and Pew surveys show confidence collapsing across the political spectrum. Each time Patel leans into grievance politics, he confirms the worst fears of his critics: that the Bureau is no longer a guardian of justice but a partisan weapon. This matters. The FBI controls extraordinary powers — surveillance, subpoenas, counterintelligence operations, prosecutions. In the wrong hands, those powers can tilt elections, crush dissent, and undermine democracy itself. To entrust them to Patel is to hand a loaded weapon to a man who has shown again and again that he cannot be trusted. America has endured controversial FBI Directors before. Hoover abused his office for half a century. James Comey became a lightning rod for his handling of the Clinton and Trump investigations. But neither man entered the job with Patel’s combination of paranoia, grievance, and open disdain for institutional independence. Patel is not merely a bad fit. He is a mortal threat to the Bureau’s credibility — and by extension, to the rule of law itself. If the FBI becomes a tool of partisan vengeance, no American is safe from its abuses. Congress Must Act The time for patience has passed. Congressional oversight must be relentless. Subpoenas should fly. Depositions must be compelled. Lawsuits from wrongfully terminated agents should be expedited. Patel’s every action should be scrutinised not as the ordinary mistakes of a new director, but as evidence of a man unfit for the role he holds. If Patel cannot — or will not — restore the FBI’s neutrality, then Congress must move toward the most drastic remedies available: demanding his resignation or initiating the process for removal. Kash Patel is not suited to lead the FBI. His enemies list, his betrayals on the Epstein files, his retaliatory purges, his indulgence of conspiracy theories, and his reckless public missteps have already damaged the Bureau’s credibility beyond repair. Every day he remains in office, the FBI drifts further from the impartial guardian it was meant to be and closer to a partisan weapon wielded against political opponents. America deserves better. If Patel will not step aside, Congress must force the issue. The survival of democratic accountability depends on it. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The FBI demands neutrality. Its director must embody restraint, even-handedness, and fidelity to the Constitution above personal or partisan loyalty. Patel offers the opposite

Kash Patel, stated that government files reviewed during his tenure contained no evidence that Jeffrey Epstein trafficked women to others.


USA: Report suggests new details of Trump-Epstein ties emerge

FBI Director Kash Patel gets into a verbal showdown with Democrat senator

FBI Director Kash Patel on Tuesday (Sep 16) pushed back hard against accusations from Senate Democrats that his removal of senior FBI agents was politically motivated, insisting he had no plans to step down despite reports of unease in the White House over his leadership. "I'm not going anywhere. If you want to criticise my 16 years of service, bring it on," Patel said in his opening remarks before the Senate judiciary committee, where he faced lawmakers for the first time since his February confirmation. What followed was a tense, four-hour hearing marked by angry exchanges.<h2>Kash Patel hearing turns into a war of words</h2>Patel accused Democrats of "weaponising intelligence," at one point calling California senator Adam Schiff "a liar" and "a political buffoon at best" after being pressed about the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell to a lower-security prison. He insisted he had no role in that decision and that a court order prevented him from releasing more documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein.<h2>FBI agents who investigated Trump were fired?</h2>Other Democrats questioned Patel's fitness for the job, citing lawsuits by three fired senior FBI officials who allege the bureau has been politicised. According to the lawsuit, they also claim that at one point Kash Patel stated that he had been instructed to fire agents who investigated Trump. Patel refused to comment on the allegations, saying they were the subject of litigation, but said terminations were only made when agents violated their oath, broke the law, or failed to meet bureau standards."The only way, generally speaking, an individual is terminated at the FBI is if they have violated their oath of office, violated the law, or failed to uphold the standards that we need them to have at the FBI," he said."I don't think you're fit to head the bureau," Senator Cory Booker told him, predicting Patel was "not going to be around long. I think this might be your last oversight hearing". Patel shot back: "That rant of false information does not bring this country together".Patel also resisted providing figures on how many agents had been fired, resigned, or retired since Trump became POTUS, accusing Hawaii senator Mazie Hirono of seeking a "media hit" rather than answers.Patel is due to appear Wednesday (Sep 17) before the House Judiciary Committee, where Democrats have signalled plans to press him further on Epstein and the bureau's independence.

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday in a tense four-hour hearing, where he denied that he has politicised the bureau and conducted a "campaign of retribution" against those who investigated President Donald Trump.

FBI Director Kash Patel on Tuesday (Sep 16) pushed back hard against accusations from Senate Democrats that his removal of senior FBI agents was politically motivated, insisting he had no plans to step down despite reports of unease in the White House over his leadership. "I'm not going anywhere. If you want to criticise my 16 years of service, bring it on," Patel said in his opening remarks before the Senate judiciary committee, where he faced lawmakers for the first time since his February confirmation. What followed was a tense, four-hour hearing marked by angry exchanges. Kash Patel hearing turns into a war of words Patel accused Democrats of "weaponising intelligence," at one point calling California senator Adam Schiff "a liar" and "a political buffoon at best" after being pressed about the transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell to a lower-security prison. He insisted he had no role in that decision and that a court order prevented him from releasing more documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein. FBI agents who investigated Trump were fired? Other Democrats questioned Patel's fitness for the job, citing lawsuits by three fired senior FBI officials who allege the bureau has been politicised. According to the lawsuit, they also claim that at one point Kash Patel stated that he had been instructed to fire agents who investigated Trump. Patel refused to comment on the allegations, saying they were the subject of litigation, but said terminations were only made when agents violated their oath, broke the law, or failed to meet bureau standards. "The only way, generally speaking, an individual is terminated at the FBI is if they have violated their oath of office, violated the law, or failed to uphold the standards that we need them to have at the FBI," he said. "I don't think you're fit to head the bureau," Senator Cory Booker told him, predicting Patel was "not going to be around long. I think this might be your last oversight hearing". Patel shot back: "That rant of false information does not bring this country together". Patel also resisted providing figures on how many agents had been fired, resigned, or retired since Trump became POTUS, accusing Hawaii senator Mazie Hirono of seeking a "media hit" rather than answers. Patel is due to appear Wednesday (Sep 17) before the House Judiciary Committee, where Democrats have signalled plans to press him further on Epstein and the bureau's independence.

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday in a tense four-hour hearing, where he denied that he has politicised the bureau and conducted a "campaign of retribution" against those who investigated President Donald Trump.

Kash Patel denies politicising FBI as hearing turns into war of words: 'Liar,' 'buffoon,' 'false rant'

Patel began his professional journey as a public defender in Miami-Dade County, Florida, where he represented low-income clients in criminal cases. His early work gave him insight into the flaws of the justice system and experience in high-pressure courtroom environments.

Who is Kash Patel? The Indian-origin FBI director investigating Tyler Robinson, Charlie Kirk case

US President Donald Trump has publicly defended FBI Director Kash Patel after criticism over the bureau’s handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk. “I am very proud of the FBI,” Trump told Fox News on Saturday. “Kash, and everyone else, they have done a great job.”<h2>Who was arrested?</h2>Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sick-enough-to-celebrate-his-death-why-people-are-losing-their-jobs-facing-doxxing-over-social-media-posts-about-charlie-kirk-1757838099662">'Sick enough to celebrate his death': Why people are losing their jobs, facing doxxing over social media posts about Charlie Kirk</a><h2>Why is Patel facing criticism?</h2>Patel has been under fire from both current and former FBI officials, as well as some MAGA supporters online, over his handling of the case. On Wednesday, he wrote on social media that a “subject” was in custody. Just two hours later, he said the individual had been released after interrogation, sparking confusion and frustration among critics.<h2>What is the White House saying?</h2>Despite the backlash, the White House is standing firmly behind Patel. Communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement, “Director Patel and his team worked night and day to find this murderer and bring him to justice. Anyone who doubts his resolve and dedication, especially when Charlie was such a close friend to him, simply is using this extremely sad moment in a disgusting act of political gamesmanship.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charlie-kirk-shooting-sparks-panic-in-us-false-shooter-reports-cause-chaos-at-naval-academy-and-umass-as-manhunt-for-suspect-continues-1757660486487">Charlie Kirk shooting sparks panic in US: False shooter reports cause chaos at Naval Academy and UMass as manhunt for suspect continues</a><h2>What happens next?</h2>Patel is set to appear before Congress this week, where he is expected to be questioned over the investigation and wider criticisms, including his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The hearing could prove a major test for the FBI director as the political fallout over Kirk’s killing continues.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.

US President Donald Trump has publicly defended FBI Director Kash Patel after criticism over the bureau’s handling of the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk. “I am very proud of the FBI,” Trump told Fox News on Saturday. “Kash, and everyone else, they have done a great job.” Who was arrested? Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week. Also read: 'Sick enough to celebrate his death': Why people are losing their jobs, facing doxxing over social media posts about Charlie Kirk Why is Patel facing criticism? Patel has been under fire from both current and former FBI officials, as well as some MAGA supporters online, over his handling of the case. On Wednesday, he wrote on social media that a “subject” was in custody. Just two hours later, he said the individual had been released after interrogation, sparking confusion and frustration among critics. What is the White House saying? Despite the backlash, the White House is standing firmly behind Patel. Communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement, “Director Patel and his team worked night and day to find this murderer and bring him to justice. Anyone who doubts his resolve and dedication, especially when Charlie was such a close friend to him, simply is using this extremely sad moment in a disgusting act of political gamesmanship.” Also read: Charlie Kirk shooting sparks panic in US: False shooter reports cause chaos at Naval Academy and UMass as manhunt for suspect continues What happens next? Patel is set to appear before Congress this week, where he is expected to be questioned over the investigation and wider criticisms, including his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The hearing could prove a major test for the FBI director as the political fallout over Kirk’s killing continues.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed on Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson had been taken into custody and ordered to be held without bail. Formal charges are expected to be filed next week.

‘Very proud’: Trump backs FBI chief Kash Patel after Charlie Kirk assassination case

FBI Director Kash Patel is under scrutiny for incorrectly announcing that a suspect had been apprehended in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a close ally of President Donald Trump. The incident occurred at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, where Kirk was shot dead in front of approximately 3,000 people. Patel's premature announcement sparked confusion, and local officials later clarified that two individuals had been questioned but released.



Kash Patel Faces Leadership Test Over Charlie Kirk Murder | WION

Renowned podcast host Joe Rogan criticised US President Donald Trump over his administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and how there is a minute missing from the Epstein film, which they were going to release.Joe Rogan lashed Trump, saying, "Do they think we’re babies?” However, Rogan singled out FBI Director Kash Patel for criticism as he dived into the situation.&nbsp;“The Epstein stuff is so crazy, because when Kash Patel was on here and he was like, ‘There’s nothing,’ and I was like, ‘What are you talking about?’” Rogan said. “Yeah, I didn’t even know what to say.”&nbsp;Earlier in June, a month before the Trump administration announced the end of the investigation in the Jeffrey Epstein case, FBI director Patel was on Rogan's show, and downplayed what the records had.&nbsp;The FBI director insisted to Rogan that he was "working his a** off" to release the information that "we're allowed to give you."&nbsp;Later on Friday, the podcaster stressed why he did not push Patel harder on his claims about Epstein.&nbsp;“People were like, ‘Why didn’t you push back more?’ My thought was like, ‘I’m just gonna put this out there and let the internet do its work,’” Rogan said. “The guy’s saying there are no tapes, there’s no video. That doesn’t make any sense. Everyone knows it doesn’t make sense.”&nbsp;“Then he’s like, ‘Well, we have a film, we’re gonna release that film,’ and the film has a f***ing minute missing from it,” Rogan recalled, referring to surveillance footage of Epstein’s prison cell on the night of his death. “Like, do you think we’re babies? Like, what is this?," Rogan exclaimed.&nbsp;Just days ago, US President Donald Trump, once again dodged the claims of his involvement in the Epstein Files. When a reporter asked him if he wrote a letter to Jeffrey Epstein, Trump said, “I don't even know what they are talking about. Now, anybody could have written the letter and used my name. That's happened a lot.”

Earlier in June, a month before the Trump administration announced the end of the investigation in the Jeffrey Epstein case, FBI director Patel was on Rogan's show, and downplayed what the records had.

Renowned podcast host Joe Rogan criticised US President Donald Trump over his administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and how there is a minute missing from the Epstein film, which they were going to release. Joe Rogan lashed Trump, saying, "Do they think we’re babies?” However, Rogan singled out FBI Director Kash Patel for criticism as he dived into the situation. “The Epstein stuff is so crazy, because when Kash Patel was on here and he was like, ‘There’s nothing,’ and I was like, ‘What are you talking about?’” Rogan said. “Yeah, I didn’t even know what to say.” Earlier in June, a month before the Trump administration announced the end of the investigation in the Jeffrey Epstein case, FBI director Patel was on Rogan's show, and downplayed what the records had. The FBI director insisted to Rogan that he was "working his a** off" to release the information that "we're allowed to give you." Later on Friday, the podcaster stressed why he did not push Patel harder on his claims about Epstein. “People were like, ‘Why didn’t you push back more?’ My thought was like, ‘I’m just gonna put this out there and let the internet do its work,’” Rogan said. “The guy’s saying there are no tapes, there’s no video. That doesn’t make any sense. Everyone knows it doesn’t make sense.” “Then he’s like, ‘Well, we have a film, we’re gonna release that film,’ and the film has a f***ing minute missing from it,” Rogan recalled, referring to surveillance footage of Epstein’s prison cell on the night of his death. “Like, do you think we’re babies? Like, what is this?," Rogan exclaimed. Just days ago, US President Donald Trump, once again dodged the claims of his involvement in the Epstein Files. When a reporter asked him if he wrote a letter to Jeffrey Epstein, Trump said, “I don't even know what they are talking about. Now, anybody could have written the letter and used my name. That's happened a lot.”

Earlier in June, a month before the Trump administration announced the end of the investigation in the Jeffrey Epstein case, FBI director Patel was on Rogan's show, and downplayed what the records had.

'Film has f***ing minute missing': Joe Rogan lambasts Trump administration over Epstein files, says, ‘Do they think we’re babies?’

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jul 12) publicly scolded his most loyal supporters for attacking his administration over its handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — a case that has long fuelled conspiracy theories across the American far-right. In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe. The report also concluded, once again, that Epstein died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019.<h2>What's going on with my 'boys' and 'gals'</h2>Taking to Truth Social, Trump questioned, "What's going on with my 'boys' and, in some cases, 'gals?'." Defending Bondi, he added, "They're all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!""We're on one Team, MAGA, and I don't like what's happening," Trump wrote using the acronym his 'Make America Great Again' movement. "We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and 'selfish people' are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein," he added.<h2>Far-right erupts after DOJ closes Epstein probe</h2>The statement came after prominent right-wing influencers, including Alex Jones and Laura Loomer, tore into the Trump administration's top legal officials for what they described as a cover-up. Loomer called for Bondi to be fired, labelling her "an embarrassment". Meanwhile, Jones fumed: "Next the DOJ will say ‘Actually, Jeffrey Epstein never even existed’," adding, "This is over the top sickening."Dan Bongino, a powerful pro-Trump media figure and former Secret Service agent, was reportedly so enraged by the DOJ's statement that he threatened to resign from his role as FBI deputy director — a post to which Trump appointed him earlier this year.But Trump pushed back against his own base, and said, "For years, it's Epstein, over and over again...Let's...not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about." Urging his MAGA movement to focus on "the Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020," he said "instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!"Trump also claimed the renewed focus on Epstein — who was previously photographed with him at parties in the 1990s — was a hoax pushed by Democrats for political gain. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing or links to Epstein’s alleged network of elite abusers, conspiracy theorists have long accused the government of covering up Epstein’s ties to powerful figures, including politicians, royalty, and CEOs.

In a lengthy post on Truth Social Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jul 12) publicly scolded his most loyal supporters for attacking his administration over its handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — a case that has long fuelled conspiracy theories across the American far-right. In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe. The report also concluded, once again, that Epstein died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019. What's going on with my 'boys' and 'gals' Taking to Truth Social, Trump questioned, "What's going on with my 'boys' and, in some cases, 'gals?'." Defending Bondi, he added, "They're all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!" "We're on one Team, MAGA, and I don't like what's happening," Trump wrote using the acronym his 'Make America Great Again' movement. "We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and 'selfish people' are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein," he added. Far-right erupts after DOJ closes Epstein probe The statement came after prominent right-wing influencers, including Alex Jones and Laura Loomer, tore into the Trump administration's top legal officials for what they described as a cover-up. Loomer called for Bondi to be fired, labelling her "an embarrassment". Meanwhile, Jones fumed: "Next the DOJ will say ‘Actually, Jeffrey Epstein never even existed’," adding, "This is over the top sickening." Dan Bongino, a powerful pro-Trump media figure and former Secret Service agent, was reportedly so enraged by the DOJ's statement that he threatened to resign from his role as FBI deputy director — a post to which Trump appointed him earlier this year. But Trump pushed back against his own base, and said, "For years, it's Epstein, over and over again...Let's...not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about." Urging his MAGA movement to focus on "the Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020," he said "instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!" Trump also claimed the renewed focus on Epstein — who was previously photographed with him at parties in the 1990s — was a hoax pushed by Democrats for political gain. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing or links to Epstein’s alleged network of elite abusers, conspiracy theorists have long accused the government of covering up Epstein’s ties to powerful figures, including politicians, royalty, and CEOs.

In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe

Trump scolds MAGA base over Epstein files outrage: 'LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!'

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States has been subjecting several of its employees to polygraph tests to find out if they are betraying their nation or can't be trusted with secrets. The increased reliance on lie-detector tests started in the investigation agency after Kash Patel took office as FBI director. Some employees were even&nbsp;asked if they had made remarks disparaging Kash Patel.&nbsp;Two people with knowledge of the matter told the NYT that senior employees were asked in interviews and polygraph tests whether they had said anything negative about Kash Patel. One employee was forced to take the polygraph test to find out who leaked the report about Patel demanding a service weapon to the media.&nbsp;Dozens of employees were asked to take these tests. They&nbsp;are part of the FBI's crackdown on news leaks. There is a sense among employees that disparaging Kash Patel or his deputy, Dan Bongino, can cost them their jobs.&nbsp;Commenting on the row, James Davidson, a former agent, said the employees' loyalty must be towards the US Constitution, not Kash Patel or his deputy.&nbsp;Michael Feinberg, a top agent in the field office in Norfolk, was threatened with a polygraph over his friendship with Peter Strzok, a counterintelligence official who was fired for sending text messages deriding US President Donald Trump, reported the paper.&nbsp;He wrote in a blog that a top agent asked him to submit to a polygraph test to probe the nature of his friendship.&nbsp;He also claimed that he was expected to "grovel, beg forgiveness, and pledge loyalty". He, however, resigned.<h2>Who is Kash Patel?</h2>Kash Patel is the ninth director of the FBI. The Indian-origin official was appointed by Donald Trump earlier this year, after he became the US President for the second time.&nbsp;He is the first Asian-American to hold the position. Before this, he&nbsp;served as a senior aide to Congressman Devin Nunes and worked in various roles within the Trump administration, including as chief of staff to the acting US Secretary of Defense.&nbsp;Kash Patel was born to Gujarati parents in New York on February 25, 1980, in Garden City. He graduated from the University of Richmond and later earned a Juris Doctor from Pace University School of Law.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States has been subjecting several of its employees to polygraph tests to find out if they are betraying their nation or can't be trusted with secrets.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States has been subjecting several of its employees to polygraph tests to find out if they are betraying their nation or can't be trusted with secrets. The increased reliance on lie-detector tests started in the investigation agency after Kash Patel took office as FBI director. Some employees were even asked if they had made remarks disparaging Kash Patel. Two people with knowledge of the matter told the NYT that senior employees were asked in interviews and polygraph tests whether they had said anything negative about Kash Patel. One employee was forced to take the polygraph test to find out who leaked the report about Patel demanding a service weapon to the media. Dozens of employees were asked to take these tests. They are part of the FBI's crackdown on news leaks. There is a sense among employees that disparaging Kash Patel or his deputy, Dan Bongino, can cost them their jobs. Commenting on the row, James Davidson, a former agent, said the employees' loyalty must be towards the US Constitution, not Kash Patel or his deputy. Michael Feinberg, a top agent in the field office in Norfolk, was threatened with a polygraph over his friendship with Peter Strzok, a counterintelligence official who was fired for sending text messages deriding US President Donald Trump, reported the paper. He wrote in a blog that a top agent asked him to submit to a polygraph test to probe the nature of his friendship. He also claimed that he was expected to "grovel, beg forgiveness, and pledge loyalty". He, however, resigned. Who is Kash Patel? Kash Patel is the ninth director of the FBI. The Indian-origin official was appointed by Donald Trump earlier this year, after he became the US President for the second time. He is the first Asian-American to hold the position. Before this, he served as a senior aide to Congressman Devin Nunes and worked in various roles within the Trump administration, including as chief of staff to the acting US Secretary of Defense. Kash Patel was born to Gujarati parents in New York on February 25, 1980, in Garden City. He graduated from the University of Richmond and later earned a Juris Doctor from Pace University School of Law.

The increased reliance on lie-detector tests started in the investigation agency after Kash Patel took office as FBI director, said a report.

FBI subjecting agents to polygraph test to prove loyalty for Kash Patel: Report

Mark Epstein, the brother of financier Jeffrey Epstein, has strongly rejected the Trump administration’s final report into his brother’s controversial death, suggesting the official explanation doesn’t add up.<h2>What did the Trump administration’s report conclude?</h2>The Justice Department and FBI, under President Donald Trump, this week released a long-awaited report declaring that Jeffrey Epstein had died by suicide. It also said there was no evidence that Epstein had kept a list of powerful clients to use for blackmail.But the findings have angered many of Trump’s own supporters, who had long speculated that Epstein’s death involved foul play, suspicions encouraged by several MAGA officials.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-complete-disappointment-kash-patel-once-pushed-epstein-conspiracies-now-leads-trump-s-fbi-and-dismisses-them-but-maga-isn-t-buying-it-1751892825511">‘Complete disappointment’: Kash Patel once pushed Epstein conspiracies, now leads Trump’s FBI and dismisses them, but MAGA&nbsp;isn’t&nbsp;buying&nbsp;it</a><h2>What is Mark Epstein saying now?</h2>Speaking to NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo on Tuesday, Mark Epstein said he doesn’t trust the government’s version of events. “Every time they say or do something to try to quash the fact that he was most likely murdered, they just put their foot further down their mouth,” he said. Mark has long voiced concerns about how his brother died in a high-security jail while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges in 2019.The official autopsy was conducted by New York City’s Chief Medical Examiner Barbara Sampson, with renowned pathologist Dr Michael Baden observing at the request of Epstein’s legal team. Baden said at the time that Epstein’s injuries were “more consistent with homicidal strangulation than suicide.”Kash Patel, the FBI director and one of the Trump officials who had previously fuelled speculation about Epstein’s alleged blackmail operation, made a sharp U-turn in May. “You know a suicide when you see one, and that’s what that was,” Patel said.Mark Epstein, reacting to that statement, said, “When Kash Patel came out with that statement, I laughed at how stupid it was.”Trump has not directly addressed Mark Epstein’s claims, but during a press briefing on Monday, his press secretary refused to answer questions related to Jeffrey Epstein.

The Justice Department and FBI, under President Donald Trump, this week released a long-awaited report declaring that Jeffrey Epstein had died by suicide. It also said there was no evidence that Epstein had kept a list of powerful clients to use for blackmail.

Mark Epstein, the brother of financier Jeffrey Epstein, has strongly rejected the Trump administration’s final report into his brother’s controversial death, suggesting the official explanation doesn’t add up. What did the Trump administration’s report conclude? The Justice Department and FBI, under President Donald Trump, this week released a long-awaited report declaring that Jeffrey Epstein had died by suicide. It also said there was no evidence that Epstein had kept a list of powerful clients to use for blackmail. But the findings have angered many of Trump’s own supporters, who had long speculated that Epstein’s death involved foul play, suspicions encouraged by several MAGA officials. Also read: ‘Complete disappointment’: Kash Patel once pushed Epstein conspiracies, now leads Trump’s FBI and dismisses them, but MAGA isn’t buying it What is Mark Epstein saying now? Speaking to NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo on Tuesday, Mark Epstein said he doesn’t trust the government’s version of events. “Every time they say or do something to try to quash the fact that he was most likely murdered, they just put their foot further down their mouth,” he said. Mark has long voiced concerns about how his brother died in a high-security jail while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges in 2019. The official autopsy was conducted by New York City’s Chief Medical Examiner Barbara Sampson, with renowned pathologist Dr Michael Baden observing at the request of Epstein’s legal team. Baden said at the time that Epstein’s injuries were “more consistent with homicidal strangulation than suicide.” Kash Patel, the FBI director and one of the Trump officials who had previously fuelled speculation about Epstein’s alleged blackmail operation, made a sharp U-turn in May. “You know a suicide when you see one, and that’s what that was,” Patel said. Mark Epstein, reacting to that statement, said, “When Kash Patel came out with that statement, I laughed at how stupid it was.” Trump has not directly addressed Mark Epstein’s claims, but during a press briefing on Monday, his press secretary refused to answer questions related to Jeffrey Epstein.

The Justice Department and FBI, under President Donald Trump, this week released a long-awaited report declaring that Jeffrey Epstein had died by suicide. It also said there was no evidence that Epstein had kept a list of powerful clients to use for blackmail.

‘I laughed at how stupid it was’: Jeffrey Epstein’s brother says he was ‘murdered’, refutes FBI report

Donald Trump’s FBI has concluded there is no evidence that Jeffrey Epstein kept a secret “client list”, blackmailed powerful individuals, or was murdered, directly contradicting years of speculation, some of which was once pushed by the same people now leading the agency.The revelations, first reported by Axios, come from a two-page memo summarising the findings of an internal Justice Department investigation under the Trump administration. It comes shortly after Elon Musk publicly accused Trump of being named in the long-rumoured Epstein files, an accusation he later deleted.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-s-new-america-party-gets-support-from-mark-cuban-anthony-scaramucci-here-s-who-wants-in-1751803571320">'Billionaire, Ex-Trump ally': Elon Musk’s new ‘America Party’ gets support from surprising allies: Here’s who wants in</a><h2>Elon Musk’s accusation went viral</h2>In early June, Musk escalated his feud with Donald Trump by writing on X, “Time to drop the really big bomb: Donald Trump is in the Epstein files.” The post was deleted later. Trump responded by dismissing the claim, telling NBC News, “That’s called old news… Even Epstein’s lawyer said I had nothing to do with it.” He added, “I was not at all friendly with him [Epstein] for probably 18 years before he died.”<h2>The memo: No client list, no blackmail, no conspiracy</h2>The FBI memo reviewed by Axios said there was “no credible evidence” that Epstein was running a blackmail operation or maintained a so-called “client list”. Investigators said they found no grounds to charge anyone else and had viewed prison footage that backed up the official ruling that Epstein died by suicide in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019.Trump’s Attorney General Pam Bondi, who previously said she had access to Epstein’s client list and promised to release it, has not commented since the FBI memo came out. Earlier this year, she told Fox News, “It’s sitting on my desk right now to review… Americans have a right to know.” At that time, Trump Jr. also chimed in, reposting news that Bondi had the files and adding “LFG” — let’s f***ing go.<h2>From conspiracy to contradiction: What changed?</h2>The memo’s publication marks a sharp turnaround, especially from figures like Kash Patel, who is now Trump’s FBI director. Before his appointment, Patel was one of the most vocal Epstein conspiracy theorists in pro-Trump media. Dan Bongino, now deputy director of the FBI, also frequently questioned the official version of Epstein’s death, suggesting a cover-up. Both now say Epstein died by suicide and there is no wider plot.“He killed himself,” Bongino said in May on Fox News. “I’ve seen the whole file.” Yet many on the right remain unconvinced. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) posted in May, “THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!”<h2>What the Epstein memo didn’t reveal</h2>Despite the FBI’s statement, some key questions remain. Bondi had earlier said that the FBI initially gave her only a few hundred pages, but eventually handed over thousands of documents. She claimed they contained flight logs, victim names, and more. As of now, the full contents of those documents have not been made public. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s long-time associate, is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking of minors and related charges. No further prosecutions are planned.

In early June, Musk escalated his feud with Donald Trump by writing on X, “Time to drop the really big bomb: Donald Trump is in the Epstein files.” The post was deleted later.

Donald Trump’s FBI has concluded there is no evidence that Jeffrey Epstein kept a secret “client list”, blackmailed powerful individuals, or was murdered, directly contradicting years of speculation, some of which was once pushed by the same people now leading the agency. The revelations, first reported by Axios, come from a two-page memo summarising the findings of an internal Justice Department investigation under the Trump administration. It comes shortly after Elon Musk publicly accused Trump of being named in the long-rumoured Epstein files, an accusation he later deleted. Also read: 'Billionaire, Ex-Trump ally': Elon Musk’s new ‘America Party’ gets support from surprising allies: Here’s who wants in Elon Musk’s accusation went viral In early June, Musk escalated his feud with Donald Trump by writing on X, “Time to drop the really big bomb: Donald Trump is in the Epstein files.” The post was deleted later. Trump responded by dismissing the claim, telling NBC News, “That’s called old news… Even Epstein’s lawyer said I had nothing to do with it.” He added, “I was not at all friendly with him [Epstein] for probably 18 years before he died.” The memo: No client list, no blackmail, no conspiracy The FBI memo reviewed by Axios said there was “no credible evidence” that Epstein was running a blackmail operation or maintained a so-called “client list”. Investigators said they found no grounds to charge anyone else and had viewed prison footage that backed up the official ruling that Epstein died by suicide in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019. Trump’s Attorney General Pam Bondi, who previously said she had access to Epstein’s client list and promised to release it, has not commented since the FBI memo came out. Earlier this year, she told Fox News, “It’s sitting on my desk right now to review… Americans have a right to know.” At that time, Trump Jr. also chimed in, reposting news that Bondi had the files and adding “LFG” — let’s f***ing go. From conspiracy to contradiction: What changed? The memo’s publication marks a sharp turnaround, especially from figures like Kash Patel, who is now Trump’s FBI director. Before his appointment, Patel was one of the most vocal Epstein conspiracy theorists in pro-Trump media. Dan Bongino, now deputy director of the FBI, also frequently questioned the official version of Epstein’s death, suggesting a cover-up. Both now say Epstein died by suicide and there is no wider plot. “He killed himself,” Bongino said in May on Fox News. “I’ve seen the whole file.” Yet many on the right remain unconvinced. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) posted in May, “THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!” What the Epstein memo didn’t reveal Despite the FBI’s statement, some key questions remain. Bondi had earlier said that the FBI initially gave her only a few hundred pages, but eventually handed over thousands of documents. She claimed they contained flight logs, victim names, and more. As of now, the full contents of those documents have not been made public. Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s long-time associate, is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking of minors and related charges. No further prosecutions are planned.

In early June, Musk escalated his feud with Donald Trump by writing on X, “Time to drop the really big bomb: Donald Trump is in the Epstein files.” The post was deleted later.

‘Complete disappointment’: Kash Patel once pushed Epstein conspiracies, now leads Trump’s FBI and dismisses them, but MAGA isn’t buying it

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail.”&nbsp;“Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we FBI, will,” Patel said in a post on the social media platform X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a> will.&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1931522027719995558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

But his warning did not go well with a section of the internet, as people were seen reminding Trump’s aide of the January 6 Capitol riots.&nbsp;&nbsp;People reminded him how his present stance was way different from what the Republicans said and did about the January 6 riots. The rioters were pardoned by the US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;What was the riot?&nbsp;On January 6, 2021, a mob of Donald Trump supporters attacked the US Capitol. More than 150 police officers were injured during the riots that ensued. This was after the presidential election in which Joe Biden won and Trump alleged the election was “rigged”.&nbsp;After his return to the White House in January 2025 - Trump pardoned about 1,500 people charged over the riots.&nbsp;‘You'll get a pardon, right, Kash?’&nbsp;After Patel issued the warning, the internet took a dig at the FBI director.&nbsp;“But if you do it wearing Trump merch while rioting at the US Capitol, you'll get a pardon, right, Kash?” an X user wrote. “This declaration evidently does not apply to the Trump supporters who attacked police on Jan. 6,” wrote another.&nbsp;“Remember Jan 6th? Your dear leader pardoned hundreds who assaulted cops,” a third one wrote.&nbsp;What are the anti-ICE protests in LA?&nbsp;Los Angeles has become the epicentre of major anti-ICE protests following a series of large-scale immigration raids by federal agents across the city. &nbsp;&nbsp;Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the streets of LA on Saturday (June 7) to curb the “lawlessness”.&nbsp;

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots 

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail.” “Hit a cop, you’re going to jail… doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you. If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we FBI, will,” Patel said in a post on the social media platform X.

Donald Trump’s FBI Director Kash Patel issued a stark warning to protesters in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying anyone who hits a cop will be “going to jail." But his warning backfired on him by the internet.&nbsp;

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots

The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has now become a very public feud, with both exchanging sharp personal jabs. What started as disagreements over policy has turned into a battle to see who wields bigger influence.Musk didn’t stop at criticising Trump’s latest legislative push. He went a step further, talking about unseating Republicans who backed the bill and even floated the idea of launching a third party. “Trump has 3.5 years left as President, but I will be around for 40+ years,” Musk wrote on X, in what many saw as a warning to Republicans picking sides.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maga-loves-musk-too-here-s-how-elon-musk-s-popularity-among-republicans-could-hurt-donald-trump-s-future-plans-1749298584471">MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans</a><h2>Musk’s popularity still strong among Republicans</h2>Despite his recent fallouts and growing criticism over the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk remains one of the most popular figures in the Republican Party. He continues to enjoy favourability ratings that most Republicans can only dream of.In an April Reuters/Ipsos poll, 54% of Republicans had a “very favourable” view of Trump, and 50% said the same about Vice President JD Vance. Musk followed closely at 43%. His popularity was well ahead of other Republican figures like Pete Hegseth (33%) and Michael Waltz (18%).<h2>Approval beyond party lines</h2>A separate Marquette University Law School poll showed Musk’s popularity among the general public was also notable. His 22% “very favourable” rating was just behind Trump’s 25% and on par with Vance.Even after DOGE’s decline in popularity, Musk’s work in that area remains well-supported in Republican circles. According to a New York Times/Siena College poll in April, 63% of Republicans and 70% of Trump voters said they “strongly support” the cuts introduced by DOGE.<h2>A strong base, but not unquestioned loyalty</h2>While Musk enjoys strong approval ratings, it doesn’t necessarily translate to unwavering support. A Quinnipiac University poll in April showed that while 71% of Republicans believed Musk had the right amount of power in Trump’s administration, only 8% felt he had too little. This suggests that although Republicans like Musk, many may not want him to have more influence.Even so, his overall popularity remains stable. The Economist/YouGov poll found that 76% of Republicans view him favourably, and a New York Times/Siena College poll in late April reported a 77% favourability rating among GOP voters.<h2>Only Trump and Vance are more popular</h2>Musk’s standing in the Republican Party ranks just behind Trump and JD Vance. According to the Economist/YouGov poll, Trump holds an 87% approval rating among Republicans, while Vance is at 80%. These numbers show that, for now, Musk is third in line when it comes to popularity in the party.However, this could change quickly. With Trump known for going after rivals, the fallout from this break-up may hurt Musk’s standing. His numbers could dip if Trump targets him directly in the coming weeks.

Despite his recent fallouts and growing criticism over the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk remains one of the most popular figures in the Republican Party. He continues to enjoy favourability ratings that most Republicans can only dream of.

The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has now become a very public feud, with both exchanging sharp personal jabs. What started as disagreements over policy has turned into a battle to see who wields bigger influence. Musk didn’t stop at criticising Trump’s latest legislative push. He went a step further, talking about unseating Republicans who backed the bill and even floated the idea of launching a third party. “Trump has 3.5 years left as President, but I will be around for 40+ years,” Musk wrote on X, in what many saw as a warning to Republicans picking sides. Also read: MAGA loves Musk too! Here's how Elon Musk's popularity among Republicans could hurt Donald Trump's future plans Musk’s popularity still strong among Republicans Despite his recent fallouts and growing criticism over the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk remains one of the most popular figures in the Republican Party. He continues to enjoy favourability ratings that most Republicans can only dream of. In an April Reuters/Ipsos poll, 54% of Republicans had a “very favourable” view of Trump, and 50% said the same about Vice President JD Vance. Musk followed closely at 43%. His popularity was well ahead of other Republican figures like Pete Hegseth (33%) and Michael Waltz (18%). Approval beyond party lines A separate Marquette University Law School poll showed Musk’s popularity among the general public was also notable. His 22% “very favourable” rating was just behind Trump’s 25% and on par with Vance. Even after DOGE’s decline in popularity, Musk’s work in that area remains well-supported in Republican circles. According to a New York Times/Siena College poll in April, 63% of Republicans and 70% of Trump voters said they “strongly support” the cuts introduced by DOGE. A strong base, but not unquestioned loyalty While Musk enjoys strong approval ratings, it doesn’t necessarily translate to unwavering support. A Quinnipiac University poll in April showed that while 71% of Republicans believed Musk had the right amount of power in Trump’s administration, only 8% felt he had too little. This suggests that although Republicans like Musk, many may not want him to have more influence. Even so, his overall popularity remains stable. The Economist/YouGov poll found that 76% of Republicans view him favourably, and a New York Times/Siena College poll in late April reported a 77% favourability rating among GOP voters. Only Trump and Vance are more popular Musk’s standing in the Republican Party ranks just behind Trump and JD Vance. According to the Economist/YouGov poll, Trump holds an 87% approval rating among Republicans, while Vance is at 80%. These numbers show that, for now, Musk is third in line when it comes to popularity in the party. However, this could change quickly. With Trump known for going after rivals, the fallout from this break-up may hurt Musk’s standing. His numbers could dip if Trump targets him directly in the coming weeks.

Despite his recent fallouts and growing criticism over the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk remains one of the most popular figures in the Republican Party. He continues to enjoy favourability ratings that most Republicans can only dream of.

'Trump has 3.5 years left': Only TWO Republicans are more popular than Musk - SPOILER! It's not Kash Patel or Rubio

The FBI is facing internal chaos as Director Kash Patel continues to remove staff considered disloyal to the Trump administration. According to The New York Times, Patel has been pushing senior officials to take polygraph tests at an “rapid rate” as part of his campaign to prevent leaks from the agency.One senior official told the Times he was pushed out last month after being forced to take a lie detector test. He said he believed he was targeted because he had not told Patel that his wife had taken a knee during the 2020 protests against police brutality in Washington, D.C.Others have said the threat of polygraphs is being used to scare staff into silence, preventing them from speaking out about Patel’s decisions or criticising his leadership.<h2>Trump ally leads controversial FBI shake-up</h2>Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden, particularly over the FBI’s past handling of the Russiagate investigation and Trump’s retention of classified documents.Soon after taking charge, Patel reportedly asked about installing a direct phone line between his office and the White House—raising concerns about possible political interference. He has also drawn criticism for wanting to use a private security team instead of FBI-provided protection.<h2>Senior staff purged, elite unit disbanded</h2>Under Patel, the FBI has seen an unprecedented shake-up. Many senior agents and executives have been demoted, placed on leave without explanation, or forced out altogether, according to the Times report.A notable move involved disbanding a high-level investigations team in Washington, DC, which had been looking into Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results.Internal critics say the wave of firings, reassignments and early retirements has wiped out years of national security experience. They also argue that the agency is now unwilling to tolerate dissent, especially regarding actions taken by Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Both Vance and Hegseth were reportedly involved in a leak scandal linked to the messaging app Signal.

Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden.

The FBI is facing internal chaos as Director Kash Patel continues to remove staff considered disloyal to the Trump administration. According to The New York Times, Patel has been pushing senior officials to take polygraph tests at an “rapid rate” as part of his campaign to prevent leaks from the agency. One senior official told the Times he was pushed out last month after being forced to take a lie detector test. He said he believed he was targeted because he had not told Patel that his wife had taken a knee during the 2020 protests against police brutality in Washington, D.C. Others have said the threat of polygraphs is being used to scare staff into silence, preventing them from speaking out about Patel’s decisions or criticising his leadership. Trump ally leads controversial FBI shake-up Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden, particularly over the FBI’s past handling of the Russiagate investigation and Trump’s retention of classified documents. Soon after taking charge, Patel reportedly asked about installing a direct phone line between his office and the White House—raising concerns about possible political interference. He has also drawn criticism for wanting to use a private security team instead of FBI-provided protection. Senior staff purged, elite unit disbanded Under Patel, the FBI has seen an unprecedented shake-up. Many senior agents and executives have been demoted, placed on leave without explanation, or forced out altogether, according to the Times report. A notable move involved disbanding a high-level investigations team in Washington, DC, which had been looking into Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. Internal critics say the wave of firings, reassignments and early retirements has wiped out years of national security experience. They also argue that the agency is now unwilling to tolerate dissent, especially regarding actions taken by Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. Both Vance and Hegseth were reportedly involved in a leak scandal linked to the messaging app Signal.

Kash Patel was appointed FBI Director by President Donald Trump earlier this year. He was tasked with ending what Republicans describe as the agency’s “weaponisation” under former President Joe Biden.

‘Lie detector purge’: FBI director Kash Patel accused of forcing out officials over ‘disloyalty’ after conducting polygraph test

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day. Dan Bongino, in an interview, said Patel arrives at the office at 6 am and rarely leaves before 7 pm, while refuting reports that Patel is rarely in office. &nbsp;"Kash is in the office by 6 a.m. and rarely leaves before 7 p.m. If you think we are there for tea and crumpets… I mean, Kash is there all day," he said. He also added that their offices are so close that he can even hear when Patel turns on a faucet. “I stare at these four walls all day in DC, you know, by myself, divorced from my wife. Not divorced, but I mean, separated. And it's hard. We love each other, but it's hard to be apart,” Bongino said.&nbsp;Bongino explained his sacrifices saying, “My wife is struggling. But I am not a victim. I am not James Comey (former FBI director). I did this and I am proud that I did it.” &nbsp;This comes weeks after Former FBI counter-intelligence official Frank Figliuzzi said that Patel is spotted more at nightclubs and less at the office, but people are not complaining because they probably think that things could be bad if he ran the office. Yeah well, reportedly, he's been visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover building," Figliuzzi replied. "And there are reports that daily briefings to him have been changed from every day to maybe twice weekly," he said. &nbsp;Former FBI director James Comey had also raised questions about Kash Patel and Dan Bongino's leadership. "There are lots of people in the FBI who know what they're doing. I hope these two guys are letting them guide them," he told CNN. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel nightclub visits Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day. Dan Bongino, in an interview, said Patel arrives at the office at 6 am and rarely leaves before 7 pm, while refuting reports that Patel is rarely in office. "Kash is in the office by 6 a.m. and rarely leaves before 7 p.m. If you think we are there for tea and crumpets… I mean, Kash is there all day," he said. He also added that their offices are so close that he can even hear when Patel turns on a faucet. “I stare at these four walls all day in DC, you know, by myself, divorced from my wife. Not divorced, but I mean, separated. And it's hard. We love each other, but it's hard to be apart,” Bongino said. Bongino explained his sacrifices saying, “My wife is struggling. But I am not a victim. I am not James Comey (former FBI director). I did this and I am proud that I did it.” This comes weeks after Former FBI counter-intelligence official Frank Figliuzzi said that Patel is spotted more at nightclubs and less at the office, but people are not complaining because they probably think that things could be bad if he ran the office. Yeah well, reportedly, he's been visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover building," Figliuzzi replied. "And there are reports that daily briefings to him have been changed from every day to maybe twice weekly," he said. Former FBI director James Comey had also raised questions about Kash Patel and Dan Bongino's leadership. "There are lots of people in the FBI who know what they're doing. I hope these two guys are letting them guide them," he told CNN.

Amid row over Federal Bureau of Investigation director Kash Patel's nightclub visits, Deputy Director Dan Bongino said that Patel works for 13 hours every day

'Not at FBI for tea': Kash Patel's deputy refutes report of his boss at nightclubs, says FBI Director works for '13 hours'

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FBI Director Kash Patel Under Fire for Alleged Jet Misuse for Girlfriend

FBI Director Kash Patel Under Fire for Using FBI Jet to Fly Girlfriend

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Kash Patel Faces Leadership Test Over Charlie Kirk Murder | WION

'Film has f***ing minute missing': Joe Rogan slams Trump over Epstein files

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FBI subjecting agents to polygraph test to prove loyalty for Kash Patel: Report

Jeffrey Epstein’s brother says he was ‘murdered’, refutes FBI report

Kash Patel once pushed Epstein theories, now leads Trump’s FBI & dismisses them

‘Hit a cop, you’re going to jail’: Kash Patel warns LA anti-ICE protesters, internet reminds him of ‘January 6’ riots

'Trump has 3.5 years left': Only TWO Republicans are more popular than Musk - SPOILER! It's not Kash Patel or Rubio

‘Lie detector purge’: FBI director Kash Patel accused of forcing out officials over ‘disloyalty’ after conducting polygraph test

'Not at FBI for tea': Kash Patel's deputy refutes report of his boss at nightclubs, says FBI Director works for '13 hours'