Prominent Republican senators voiced criticism of recent law enforcement missteps by the FBI and other agencies following a deadly truck attack in New Orleans. They emphasized the need for reforms under the incoming Trump administration to restore public trust.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed concern over declining public confidence in the FBI during an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press." He stated the agency requires a significant "makeover" and "housecleaning" to address public perception issues. Thune also expressed confidence in Trump's FBI nominee, Kash Patel, asserting that Patel "understands the mission."
Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), speaking on "Fox News Sunday," called for accountability following revelations that New Orleans police had access to barriers designed to prevent vehicle attacks but failed to deploy them. Cassidy insisted on "consequences" for leadership failures, suggesting the potential replacement of New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick pending a comprehensive review.
These criticisms follow the FBI's initial assessment of the truck attack as not terror-related, later reversed with the launch of a terrorism investigation allegedly linked to ISIS. This shift drew sharp rebukes from Trump allies, with one source close to the president-elect telling Fox News Digital that the FBI's "no-fail mission" necessitates Patel's swift confirmation.
Patel's confirmation, along with other Cabinet nominees, will require Senate approval after Trump's inauguration.
