The Senate of the United States has approved Kashyap “Kash” Patel as the new FBI Director with a narrow vote of 51–49. Patel is known for his critical stance against the security establishment and his supportive ties to former President Donald Trump.
Patel gained prominence as the creator of the Nunes Memo, which revealed inappropriate surveillance practices employed by the Department of Justice and the FBI during the investigation into Russian interference in the U.S. elections. He also held the position of deputy director of national intelligence during Donald Trump’s first term.
All Democratic Senators opposed Patel’s confirmation, and two moderate Republicans, Susan Collins (R-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), also voted against him.
Collins expressed her concerns, stating, “Given the current situation, it is essential to have an FBI Director who is clearly nonpartisan. Despite Mr. Patel’s 16 years of loyal public service, his recent four years have been marked by notable political involvement.”
Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), the previous Republican leader in the Senate, who announced today that he will not pursue an eighth term, voted in favor of Patel’s confirmation.
