Kash Patel, the former chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense, drew major criticism after his Wednesday press conference. He capped off the event with a doozy of a call-out, targeting the deceased right-wing media personality Charlie Kirk. Patel hopes that one day he and Kirk will be reunited in “Valhalla.” Given the circumstances of Kirk’s death, many found this comment downright dangerous.
In a wide-ranging interview Monday morning, Patel offered some fresh details about the still-unfolding investigation into Kirk’s brutal slaying. He disclosed that we have a written letter that was found that stated that the suspect had plans to “take out Charlie Kirk.” Public outcry as Patel documented how this vital piece of evidence had been obliterated. This would eventually lead to raising serious questions about the integrity of the investigation.
It’s just that the suspect, Robinson, absolutely hated everything that Charlie represented,” Patel said, underscoring the intent behind the tragedy. Yet through all of this criticism—from Democrats, Republicans, the media—he resolutely defended his handling of the investigation.
Earlier in the investigation, Patel announced on social media that a “subject” was in custody just hours after Kirk’s death. As an aside, the President later walked this comment back. He mentioned that the person arrested had been released after further questioning and that the real shooter was still on the loose. That miscommunication has in part generated a storm of criticism over Patel’s handling of the case.
Patel exposed some pivotal proof. Patel dropped the bombshell evidence. DNA from a screwdriver found on the roof of an abandoned building at Utah Valley University matched the suspect in jail. He confirmed that the rifle used in Kirk’s killing is currently undergoing processing at federal Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives laboratories in Maryland.
Criticism aimed at Patel grew after criticism from Christopher Rufo, of the Manhattan Institute, who challenged his leadership credentials. Rufo said that perhaps it’s now time for Republicans to decide if Patel is the right person to be in charge of the FBI.
“It’s time for Republicans to assess whether Kash Patel is the right man to run the FBI.” – Christopher Rufo
In light of these criticisms, Patel attempted to clarify his position, stating, “Could I have worded it a little better? Sure. Do I regret putting it out? Absolutely not.” This response mirrors sentiments echoed by others, including Dan Bongino, FBI co-deputy director, who spoke with Patel on Fox News about the investigation.
Senator Dick Durbin, Democrats’ de facto transportation chair, joined the discussion, slamming Patel’s premature announcement of custody from a suspect. He labeled it “amateur hour” and questioned Patel’s professionalism. This incident has heightened the scrutiny over Patel’s star power and his judgment under pressure.
Even in the face of this backlash, Patel doubled down on his promise to find out what really happened to Charlie Kirk. Most importantly for us today, he emphasized the need to understand why this terrible act was committed. He has consistently exhibited a strong dedication to justice being served.