Washington DC, February 20,2025
The U.S. Senate has confirmed Kashyap “Kash” Patel as the new Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with a narrow 51-49 vote. Patel, a 45-year-old attorney known for his loyalty to President Donald Trump and his critical stance toward the FBI, has previously served as Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council. In a statement, Patel emphasized his commitment to restoring integrity and upholding the rule of law within the bureau.
Born in New York in 1980 to Gujarati parents, Patel grew up in East Africa before graduating from Garden City High School in Long Island. He began his legal career as a public defender, handling complex cases ranging from murder to financial crimes.
Patel’s confirmation has been met with controversy. Critics, including Democratic Senator Dick Durbin, express concerns that his appointment could lead to the politicization of the FBI and potential targeting of political adversaries. Despite these concerns, Patel has pledged to depoliticize the bureau and focus on justice, stating that public trust has eroded.
He succeeds Christopher Wray, who resigned following President Trump’s re-election. Patel’s tenure is expected to bring significant changes to the FBI’s operations and policies.
