The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved Kash Patel's nomination for FBI director, moving it to a full Senate vote. This decision follows a contentious confirmation hearing last month and strong resistance from Democrats.
The committee voted 12-10 to advance Patel's nomination. A full Senate vote is anticipated as early as next week.
Last week, Democrats successfully postponed the committee vote by seven days in an attempt to compel Patel to testify a second time. Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) dismissed these efforts as "baseless," emphasizing Patel's extensive prior testimony, the provision of "thousands of pages" of records, and nearly 150 pages of responses to written questions.
Senator Grassley highlighted the thorough vetting process Patel underwent, stating that the Senate Judiciary Committee "has examined every detail of [Patel's] life." He also noted the "relentless attacks" on Patel's character throughout the confirmation process. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) had previously alleged that Patel orchestrated mass dismissals within the FBI based on whistleblower accounts, a claim denied by Patel's representatives who stated he was awaiting the confirmation process at home.
Patel, known for his critical stance on investigations into former President Donald Trump and his prominent role in 2020 election fraud claims, pledged during his hearing to avoid political reprisals. However, his selection is believed to stem from his intention to reshape the agency, having previously characterized the FBI as a "tool of surveillance and suppression" in his 2023 book. While acknowledging past misuse of intelligence programs, Patel expressed his commitment to protect American citizens without hindering national security efforts, particularly concerning Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He also distanced himself from Trump's pardons of individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot, particularly those who engaged in violence.
Patel's prior experience includes roles as chief of staff to Acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller, senior advisor to the acting director of national intelligence, National Security Council official, counterterrorism aide to former House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes, and a national security prosecutor in the Justice Department.
Patel has indicated his intention to prioritize law enforcement and transparency at the FBI, emphasizing collaboration with local law enforcement and responsiveness to congressional oversight to restore public trust.
