Newly sworn-in FBI Director Kash Patel delivered his first public statement on Friday, promising sweeping reforms and accountability within the bureau while directly challenging the media to focus their criticisms on him rather than his team.
Patel, who was confirmed by the Senate on Thursday in a narrow 51-49 vote, began his speech by thanking his supporters before outlining his vision for the FBI. He emphasized his commitment to constitutional oversight and accountability, vowing that changes would begin “this weekend.”
Addressing the media directly, Patel said, “I know the media is in here, and if you have a target, that target is right here. It is not the men and women at the FBI. And everything you possibly can [say] about me that’s fake, malicious, slanderous, and defamatory, keep it coming, bring it on, but leave the men and women of the FBI out of it.”
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Patel’s confirmation as FBI director marks a significant moment in his career, which has been defined by his staunch defense of former President Donald Trump and his criticism of the bureau’s handling of high-profile investigations, including the Mueller probe into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election. Patel, who previously served as chief of staff to the secretary of Defense during Trump’s first term, has long advocated for reforms within the FBI, including the establishment of a “24/7 declassification office” to address the misuse of surveillance powers.
Standing alongside Attorney General Pam Bondi, Patel assured the public that his leadership would ensure a fair and just system. “For those of you who think that there’s going to be a two-tier system of justice, not with Attorney General Bondi, there’s a singular system of justice for all Americans,” he said.
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Patel also highlighted the urgency of his mission, citing alarming statistics on violent crime and drug overdoses. “The reason that this mission is so important is simply the following: 100,000 people last year raped, 100,000 people died of CCP fentanyl overdose in heroin, and 17,000 homicides. Violent crime is out of control,” he stated.
As Patel steps into his new role, his promises of accountability and reform are likely to spark both support and controversy. His direct challenge to the media and his pledge to protect FBI personnel from undue scrutiny underscore his determination to reshape the bureau’s public image and operational priorities.
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