President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to replace FBI Director Christopher Wray with Kash Patel, a close ally and former administration official. Patel, known for his staunch support of Trump and controversial positions, would require Senate confirmation for the role.
A former Justice Department lawyer and public defender, Patel has criticized the FBI and DOJ, calling for extensive reforms in his book Government Gangsters, which Trump praised as a “blueprint” for his next term. Patel has also been vocal in defending Jan. 6 rioters and raising concerns about “Russiagate” investigations.
Patel’s past roles include authoring the contentious “Nunes memo,” challenging FBI surveillance practices, and serving in various national security positions under Trump. His appointment has reignited debates over politicization in federal law enforcement and Trump’s influence on the Justice Department.
The current FBI Director, Christopher Wray, appointed in 2017, remains focused on the bureau’s mission as speculation around his replacement grows.
