Kash Patel, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), will tell the Senate Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing on Thursday that he will restore “trust” in the law enforcement agency following four years of partisan lawfare and scandals. According to sources, Patel aims to restore public confidence in the FBI by focusing on transparency and operational effectiveness.
In his testimony, Patel is expected to highlight the declining public trust in the FBI among Americans. His plan includes a two-step approach: He pledges to help “good cops be cops,” ensuring agents have the support needed to protect citizens and apprehend criminals. Consequently, Patel is expected to advocate for streamlining operations at the agency’s headquarters and increasing the presence of field agents throughout the country.
Additionally, Patel will emphasize a commitment to congressional oversight. He intends to address hundreds of unanswered congressional requests and promote transparency within the FBI. His strategy involves working collaboratively with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to improve safety amid rising violent crime rates in the United States.
“I spearheaded the investigation which proved the violations of FISA—a tool I had previously used to hunt down terrorists—unlawfully used to spy on political opponents. Such misconduct is unacceptable and undermines public trust,” Patel’s prepared remarks read. He continues: “The erosion of trust is evident: only 40 percent of Americans hold a favorable view of the FBI. This must change. Public cooperation is vital for the bureau to solve crimes, and its declining reputation is already affecting recruitment efforts.”
During his time on the House Intelligence Committee, Patel played a crucial role in investigating FISA misuse, including how the Steele Dossier was employed in the surveillance of 2016 Trump campaign advisor Carter Page.
