FBI Director Kash Patel Faces Mounting Criticism Despite Trump’s Backing

FBI Director Kash Patel is under intense scrutiny as reports of internal discord, lawsuits, and public stumbles have fueled speculation about his future even as President Donald Trump continues to stand by him.

On Monday, former Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey will be sworn in as co-deputy FBI director alongside Dan Bongino. The unusual arrangement immediately set off speculation that Bailey could be positioned to replace Patel if the White House ever decides to make a move.

Multiple anonymous federal sources claim Attorney General Pam Bondi and her deputy Todd Blanche have clashed with Patel, particularly after the bureau’s handling of the Charlie Kirk assassination manhunt. While both Bondi and Blanche denied the characterization, insiders say tensions boiled over after Patel prematurely declared the suspect was “in custody” on social media only for local officials to later clarify the killer was still at large.

“Total amateur hour,” one federal official said of Patel’s misstep.

Signs of Friction

• Patel’s feud with Bondi dates back to disputes over the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case.

• His rushed announcement during the Kirk investigation reportedly forced officials to delay a press conference and fueled concerns about damaging a potential prosecution.

• Lawsuits filed by three former FBI leaders accuse Patel of unlawfully firing them in what they describe as a political purge, raising constitutional questions about his authority.

Some insiders have floated the idea of moving Patel to another administration role—similar to the quick reassignment of former IRS Commissioner Billy Long. But official statements from the DOJ and White House insist there are no plans to remove him.

Despite frustrations, President Trump praised Patel and the FBI team after the arrest of Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspected assassin of Charlie Kirk. “I’m very proud of the FBI. Kash – and everyone else – they have done a great job,” Trump told Fox News Digital.

Bondi also downplayed the drama, emphasizing her focus on prosecuting Kirk’s killer. “Director Patel and the FBI have worked tirelessly with my agencies and state partners, leading to the arrest of the suspect,” she said.

Patel faces upcoming testimony before House and Senate committees, where both his leadership and the ongoing lawsuits could take center stage. Analysts warn the litigation could expose the administration to legal risks, including questions about presidential authority and potential depositions.

For now, Patel retains Trump’s confidence, but the knives are clearly out. With critics circling and allies urging caution, his ability to stabilize the Bureau and his relationship with DOJ leadership may determine whether he remains in one of the most powerful positions in American law enforcement.

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