Incoming FBI Director Kash Patel, in a letter to FBI personnel obtained by Fox News Digital, has emphasized his commitment to strengthening the agency's resources and regaining public trust. Patel, confirmed by a close Senate vote, will be sworn in on Friday, succeeding Christopher Wray.
Expressing his honor at being chosen for the role, Patel highlighted his extensive background in government service and national security, particularly his decade-long collaboration with law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He affirmed his dedication to justice and upholding the law, pledging to continue this commitment alongside the FBI's workforce.
Patel's letter outlines two main priorities. First, he aims to equip agents with the necessary resources to maintain community safety. This involves optimizing headquarters operations, increasing field agent presence nationwide, and fostering closer collaboration with state and local law enforcement. Second, he stresses the importance of rebuilding public trust in the FBI through transparency with Congress and unwavering adherence to constitutional principles and equitable justice.
Patel underscored the critical nature of the FBI's mission to protect Americans at home and abroad, emphasizing the agency's continued commitment to this “no-fail mission.” He expressed confidence in the dedication of the FBI's men and women, pledging his support for them as they protect the American people.
Nominated by President Donald Trump, Patel served as a deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism during the previous Trump administration. His experience includes pivotal roles in missions targeting high-ranking al Qaeda and ISIS leaders, including the operation that resulted in the death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. He also contributed to the capture and prosecution of several high-profile terrorists.
Before his White House role, Patel served as the principal deputy at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), facilitating the leadership transition between acting DNI Ric Grenell and John Ratcliffe. His responsibilities at ODNI included focusing on intelligence related to counter-narcotics and transnational threats.
Prior to his work at ODNI, Patel held the positions of national security advisor and senior counsel for counterterrorism on the House Intelligence Committee. In this capacity, he led the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, bringing to light issues of FISA abuse and illegal surveillance of Americans, including members of the Trump campaign.
