Trump likely to fire FBI chief Kash Patel over use of jet for girlfriend, other controversies: Report

President Donald Trump is reportedly considering removing FBI Director Kash Patel in the coming months due to frustration with his leadership and recent headlines.

Patel has come under fire for his handling of bureau resources, including the use of a government jet and a security detail for his girlfriend. Additionally, his ongoing tensions with other Trump loyalists have reportedly raised concerns within the administration.

Trump and his top aides have discussed replacing Patel with Andrew Bailey, a senior FBI official, according to a report by MS Now. While Patel’s position appears increasingly precarious, the final decision could still change in the coming weeks, depending on Trump’s evaluation of the situation.

White House responds

The White House quickly pushed back against the reporting, with spokeswoman Abigail Jackson calling it “completely made up.” Jackson emphasised Patel’s importance to the administration, stating, “FBI Director Patel is a critical member of the President’s team and he is working tirelessly to restore integrity to the FBI.”

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Patel, who was publicly praised by Trump during the annual pardoning of the Thanksgiving turkeys at the White House, seemed to have the president’s backing at that moment. When a group of attendees applauded Patel, Trump quipped, “See, you’ve got a following, Kash.” Following the publication of the report, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also dismissed the claims on social media, stating that the President had laughed off the rumours and took a photo with Patel to show his support.

Patel faces internal pushback

Despite public support, Patel is reportedly facing growing internal friction within the administration. US Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche have expressed frustration over Patel’s premature social media posts, which sometimes jeopardised investigations.

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There has also been criticism over his use of taxpayer resources, particularly his use of a government jet for personal trips and assigning an elite SWAT team detail to protect his girlfriend, as first reported by MS NOW.

In September, Trump appointed Andrew Bailey as a co-deputy director at the FBI, a move widely seen as a response to concerns over the lack of experience among Patel’s and other FBI leadership.

Bailey, who previously served as Missouri’s attorney general, is considered a steady and competent leader by many within the bureau. He could take over as acting FBI director as soon as December 15, after meeting the necessary requirements under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act. If appointed, Bailey would be able to serve for up to 210 days without Senate confirmation.