Top Democrat Demands Probe Into Kash Patel’s Alleged Role in FBI Purge
Durbin Calls for Justice Department Inspector General Investigation
A top Democratic senator is urging the Justice Department’s inspector general to investigate allegations that Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s nominee for FBI director, has been personally orchestrating a purge of bureau agents.
Sen. Dick Durbin, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter Tuesday requesting an inquiry into Patel’s involvement. Durbin contends that Patel may have misled the committee during his confirmation hearing last month when he denied knowledge of any FBI plans to fire or discipline agents.
Allegations of Misleading Testimony and Targeted Firings
Durbin’s concerns stem from recent reports of high-level dismissals at the FBI. The senator noted that Patel’s testimony occurred just hours before a group of senior FBI executives were reportedly ordered to resign or face termination. Additionally, the Justice Department had requested a list of thousands of agents involved in investigations related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot—a move some within the bureau fear could lead to further firings.
“If these allegations are true, Mr. Patel may have perjured himself before the Senate Judiciary Committee,” Durbin wrote in his letter to Inspector General Michael Horowitz.
The senator cited “highly credible information from multiple sources,” including notes from a Jan. 29 meeting between FBI and Justice Department leaders, which reportedly stated, “KP wants movement at FBI, reciprocal actions for DOJ.”
Concerns Over White House Influence
Durbin also alleges that Patel—who has not yet been confirmed as FBI director—has been receiving inside information about bureau operations. He claims Patel is obtaining intelligence from a newly formed FBI advisory team and passing it along to senior White House adviser Stephen Miller.
According to Durbin, sources have indicated that Miller has been pressuring the Justice Department to accelerate the removal of targeted FBI employees, mirroring personnel changes already executed at DOJ.
Patel’s Team Dismisses Claims as “Gossip”
Patel’s spokeswoman, Erica Knight, rejected the allegations, calling them “second-hand gossip” intended to mislead the public.
“Patel is a highly qualified national security expert who has been fully transparent throughout this process and has demonstrated the integrity and leadership needed for this role. The Senate should confirm him without delay,” Knight stated.
Senate Judiciary Committee Vote Looms
Patel is set for a key Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Thursday, a crucial step in his path to becoming FBI director. Whether the allegations will impact his confirmation remains uncertain.
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