FBI Director Kash Patel Faces Off Against Senate Scrutiny
FBI Director Kash Patel showcased his resilience in a repeat performance before Congress, echoing a dramatic display from the previous day.
As reported by The Hill, Patel presented his insights on the White House budget to the Senate Appropriations Committee this morning, following a similar appearance before the House Committee on Appropriations just yesterday.
During his House testimony, Patel navigated a barrage of pointed and, dare we say, unkind questions from Rep. Madeline Dean (D-PA), a former impeachment manager for Trump. Despite the hostile atmosphere, he maintained his composure and effectively countered her claims.
Today, he faced off against another formidable challenger: Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), whom some might humorously label as a contender for “the least informed senator in America.” The ensuing exchange, as anticipated, was less of a fair debate and more of a mismatch.
In her line of questioning, Murray accused Patel of ‘weaponizing’ the FBI, conveniently overlooking the agency’s actions under President Biden regarding Trump and the citizens who protested what they perceived as an election marred by fraud. She also expressed discontent over Patel’s decision to place certain FBI agents on leave, framing it as politically motivated.
However, Patel’s calm demeanor and sharp responses cut through her assertions as she stumbled over her facts.
WATCH:
Kash Patel just WRECKED Patty Murray
KASH: “I think the common theme is you putting words in my mouth, and I’m not going to tolerate it.”
“If you wanna talk about someone who was attacked by a weaponized bureau, you’re looking at him. And now he’s the Director of the FBI”… pic.twitter.com/YX031HzTIF
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) May 8, 2025
PATEL: You asked me if I was weaponizing the FBI, and I am not. I am providing clear examples of holding accountable those who harm our children and innocent Americans.
MURRAY: But you have placed on leave FBI employees responsible for the investigation of January 6th. That sounds political to me.
PATEL: I have not put anyone on leave who has not breached their ethical obligations or their oath to this country.
MURRAY: So, if they were involved in the January 6th investigation, do you believe they were breaching ethical obligations?
PATEL: Nope! The common theme here is you putting words in my mouth, and I won’t stand for it. Nor will the dedicated men and women of the FBI.
MURRAY: Well, you did put on leave an analyst involved in investigating Russia’s meddling in the 2016 election. Is that politicization? Is that retribution?
PATEL: No, not if she violated the law or ethical guidelines. I’m unclear on which case you’re referring to, but that’s the standard. We will hold ourselves accountable and won’t be distracted from our mission by claims of weaponization and politicization of the bureau.
If you want to talk about someone who has faced attacks from a weaponized bureau, you’re looking at him. And now he’s the Director of the FBI, working to clean it up.
