Summary
Kash Patel, Trump’s FBI director pick, has no FBI experience but is deeply tied to far-right media, frequently hosting Steve Bannon’s podcast.
Patel promotes conspiracy theories, including claims of Chinese election interference and a “two-tiered justice system” targeting Trump allies. He has called for extreme measures, like arresting Attorney General Merrick Garland, and keeps a literal enemies list in his book Government Gangsters.
Critics compare Patel to J. Edgar Hoover, warning of potential abuses of federal power under his leadership. His proposals include prosecuting political opponents and journalists.
Patel’s nomination reflects Trump’s broader anti-establishment approach to governance.
The FBI has close to 37k people working for it, about a third of which are agents. While it’s true they targeted folks (including MLK Jr.!) they’re also responsible for keeping important Intel on Russia, Iran, North Korea, and so on, including nuclear counter-ops. Basically, they do alot of stuff. Who do you think tipped Ukraine off to Russian aggression before their invasion?
I’ve mixed feelings about them, but I really would rather have reform over whatever the fuck Patel’s going to try.