Senator Dick Durbin, D-Ill., has accused Kash Patel, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the FBI, of orchestrating an "ongoing purge" of civil servants within the agency. According to Durbin, Patel allegedly directed this effort while still a nominee. The allegations surfaced in a letter addressed to Inspector General Michael Horowitz, urging an immediate investigation into the matter. As this controversy unfolds, Patel's nomination remains pending, with the Judiciary Committee set to vote on Thursday.
Durbin's sources suggest that Patel has been receiving internal FBI information through a member of a newly formed unit known as the Director's Advisory Team. This information is purportedly passed on to White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who then conveys it to top Trump officials, including acting deputy Attorney General Emil Bove. These claims have raised concerns about potential misconduct and the integrity of the nomination process.
The urgency of this issue is underscored by Durbin, who asserts that if the allegations are accurate, Patel may have committed perjury during his recent Senate confirmation hearing. In his letter, Durbin emphasizes the critical need for a thorough investigation.
"This alleged misconduct is beyond the pale and must be investigated immediately," – Sen. Dick Durbin
The FBI has declined to comment on the allegations detailed in Durbin's letter, which was first reported by The New York Times. Meanwhile, Patel faces additional accusations of advocating for the removal of anti-Trump "conspirators" within government and media circles. This comes amid the Trump administration's efforts to oust several top FBI officials and federal prosecutors, some of whom were involved in prosecuting individuals linked to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Patel has denied any knowledge of an alleged purge at the FBI during his confirmation hearing, asserting his commitment to protecting all FBI employees from political retribution.
"All FBI employees will be protected against political retribution," – Kash Patel
Patel's spokeswoman, Erica Knight, has criticized media reports for relying on anonymous sources and spreading what she describes as a false narrative.
"Kash Patel is a highly qualified national security expert who has been fully transparent with the American people throughout this process and has demonstrated the integrity and leadership needed for this role," – Erica Knight
"The Senate should confirm him without delay." – Erica Knight
NBC News had previously reported on Patel's connections with individuals running the FBI in an acting capacity. As scrutiny intensifies, the spotlight remains on Patel's prospective leadership role at the FBI, and whether these controversies could impact his confirmation.